Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective intricate differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of intricate are complex, complicated, involved, and knotty. While all these words mean "having confusingly interrelated parts," intricate suggests such interlacing of parts as to make it nearly impossible to follow or grasp them separately.

an intricate web of deceit

When could complex be used to replace intricate?

In some situations, the words complex and intricate are roughly equivalent. However, complex suggests the unavoidable result of a necessary combining and does not imply a fault or failure.

a complex recipe

When is complicated a more appropriate choice than intricate?

The words complicated and intricate are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, complicated applies to what offers great difficulty in understanding, solving, or explaining.

complicated legal procedures

Where would involved be a reasonable alternative to intricate?

The words involved and intricate can be used in similar contexts, but involved implies extreme complication and often disorder.

a rambling, involved explanation

When might knotty be a better fit than intricate?

The synonyms knotty and intricate are sometimes interchangeable, but knotty suggests complication and entanglement that make solution or understanding improbable.

knotty ethical questions

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 intricate The crucible knob is made of stainless steel, in a golden finish matching the hues of the classic Flame palette and features Le Creuset’s logo for a subtle yet intricate detail. Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 Apr. 2025 Before production began, the cast spent two weeks learning how to perform intricate emergency medical techniques for the camera with the convincing speed and facility of actual professionals. Adam B. Vary, Variety, 9 Apr. 2025 Whatley shared that root touch-ups start at $90, while more intricate services such as balayage can cost from $140 to $180, depending on hair length. Gordon G. Chang, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Apr. 2025 By embracing open communication, emphasizing listening, recognizing collective responsibility, and fostering hope, all adults can effectively support teens through the intricate journey of adolescence. Laurel Donnellan, Forbes.com, 8 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for intricate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for intricate
Adjective
  • Trump and Zuckerberg have a complicated history, with the president being critical of the Silicon Valley CEO's management of online censorship, which culminated in a ban from Meta platforms after the January 6 riots.
    Thomas G. Moukawsher, MSNBC Newsweek, 14 Apr. 2025
  • So, Tokyo’s fear of Trump is more complicated than meets the eye.
    William Pesek, Forbes.com, 14 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • The website Time and Date also provides detailed information about where and when to see the phenomenon.
    Eric Lagatta, USA Today, 19 Apr. 2025
  • The administration has not given detailed reasons for the visa or student enrollment status cancellations.
    Jaweed Kaleem, Los Angeles Times, 18 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • This capability directly addresses use cases involving the analysis of extensive codebases, the summarization of lengthy documents, or maintaining context in prolonged complex interactions necessary for sophisticated AI agents.
    Janakiram MSV, Forbes.com, 15 Apr. 2025
  • But for us, that part of the brain is responsible for thinking and other complex functions.
    Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 14 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Happening now until April 13 is The National Cherry Blossom Festival that includes interesting events, Art in Bloom installations, hotel stays, and a parade on April 12 with elaborate floats, marching bands, entertainers, and performers.
    Miriam Porter, Forbes.com, 8 Apr. 2025
  • They were surrounded by stones and buried with elaborate grave goods, researchers said.
    Irene Wright, Miami Herald, 7 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Shifting trade policies, geopolitical risks, supply shortages and evolving regulatory landscapes all complicate decision-making.
    Sarah Jones, Sourcing Journal, 10 Apr. 2025
  • While promoting fairness, the rule can, and often does, complicate estate administration.
    Virginia La Torre Jeker, J.D., Forbes.com, 7 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • While her capsule collection definitely leans more elegant and feminine like her Wicked-era aesthetic, this new campaign gives off a more playful and flirty vibe.
    Kleigh Balugo, StyleCaster, 9 Apr. 2025
  • Medium-bodied, there is very good acidity, impressive freshness, and an elegant finish with good persistence.
    Tom Hyland, Forbes.com, 9 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • The cooler tones within this taupe shade are sophisticated and elegant when paired with veiny marble details.
    Heather Bien, Southern Living, 17 Apr. 2025
  • The sophisticated bouquet features a monochrome rose and carnation mix that any mom would be thrilled to receive.
    Sarah Madaus, Architectural Digest, 17 Apr. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Intricate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/intricate. Accessed 21 Apr. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on intricate

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!