complicate 1 of 2

1
2
as in to deepen
to make more severe asthma that has recently been complicated by a bout of bronchitis

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

complicate

2 of 2

adjective

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of complicate
Verb
Sign-and-trades could open up additional possibilities, although base-year-compensation rules would complicate that for any restricted free agents who are eyeing a significant raise. Bryan Toporek, Forbes.com, 16 July 2025 Its task is only complicated by the White House’s policy changes that keep shifting the economic landscape the central bank must traverse. Paolo Confino, Fortune, 15 July 2025
Adjective
Could the bond sell-off complicate the House’s budget negotiations? Andrew Ross Sorkin, New York Times, 19 May 2025 The moves challenge the traditional U.S. security role and complicate Africa's geopolitical landscape as Washington steps back. Amir Daftari, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for complicate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for complicate
Verb
  • Beyond product, the brand is committed to deepening its physical presence in key markets.
    Rhonda Richford, Footwear News, 24 July 2025
  • Some want to deepen their work without managing others.
    Benjamin Laker, Forbes.com, 23 July 2025
Adjective
  • The situation is even more complicated if short skirts are part of the equation.
    Judith Martin, Sun Sentinel, 21 July 2025
  • The distinction between a studio apartment and a one-bedroom apartment is quite simple, but understanding why the former can be a better option than the latter is slightly more complicated.
    Rachel Davies, Architectural Digest, 21 July 2025
Verb
  • The scrutiny then further intensified following a Thursday report from the Wall Street Journal citing a 50th birthday letter from Trump to Epstein that included an outline of a naked woman, sketched in marker, and Trump's signature.
    Mandy Taheri Hollie Silverman, MSNBC Newsweek, 19 July 2025
  • The civil war in Syria intensified in 2014 as the PKK was withdrawing its fighters from Turkey.
    Ragip Soylu, Time, 18 July 2025
Verb
  • This misinformation can also lead to insurance denials, distorted retirement planning, and worsened stigma.
    Jennifer Jay Palumbo, Forbes.com, 14 July 2025
  • Most of the Corn Belt and Midwest remain drought-free, except for northern Illinois where conditions worsened, the agency said.
    Joe Edwards, MSNBC Newsweek, 13 July 2025
Adjective
  • Anne Hathaway wears an intricate scarf and shades on the set of The Devil Wears Prada 2 in New York City on July 25.
    Alexandra Schonfeld, People.com, 25 July 2025
  • Nearby, Peacock Alley Lounge—the beating heart of the hotel–now feels more like a salon, with musicians playing nightly and guests craning for a closer look at the intricate ceiling.
    Jacqui Gifford, Travel + Leisure, 25 July 2025
Verb
  • Manager Luis Enrique's side then embarrassed Inter Miami 4-0 in the round of 16 and survived two late red cards vs. Bayern Munich to win that quarterfinal battle 2-0. PSG vs. Real Madrid Injury, Suspension, Lineup News: Both teams will be missing key pieces along their back lines today.
    Tyler Everett, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 July 2025
  • The Nuggets, like the current Rockies, were embarrassing themselves regularly before posting an 11-71 record.
    Troy Renck, Denver Post, 5 July 2025
Verb
  • The fall aggravated damage to his neck and back from an ATV accident 16 years before.
    Vanessa Etienne, People.com, 22 July 2025
  • Working as a senior can strain you physically, raising the risk of injury and aggravating chronic conditions such as arthritis.
    Bob Brody, Fortune, 21 July 2025
Adjective
  • Advocates argue that these policies are traumatizing for the children and that legal representation is crucial for navigating the complex immigration system.
    Nicol León, AZCentral.com, 22 July 2025
  • The humor in Mafalda toggles from complex wordplay to visual humor to political allegory.
    Alex Dueben July 21, Literary Hub, 21 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Complicate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/complicate. Accessed 30 Jul. 2025.

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