# convoluted

/ˈkɑnvəˌɫutəd/ (US) · /kˌɒnvəlˈuːtɪd/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/convoluted
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

extremely complicated and difficult to follow. You use this to describe things like stories, rules, or paths that have too many twists and turns.

For teachers: extremely complex and difficult to follow; having many overlapping folds or twists. Often used to describe abstract concepts like logic or bureaucracy, though it retains its literal sense in biological descriptions.

## Examples

- The plot of the movie was so convoluted that I got lost.
- The legal process for applying for a visa was so convoluted that many applicants had to hire a lawyer.
- The philosopher's argument was so convoluted that even his most dedicated students struggled to identify the core premise amidst the layers of historical references and technical jargon.

## Usage notes

- Typically used as a predicative adjective after linking verbs like 'be', 'become', or 'seem', or as an attributive adjective before a noun.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.