complicate (B1)

verb

Pronunciation: /ˈkɒmplɪkeɪt/

Definition

To make something more complex, difficult, or harder to understand or deal with.

Examples

• The sudden storm began to complicate our travel plans.

• His refusal to cooperate only served to complicate the investigation.

• Adding more features to the software will unnecessarily complicate it.

How to Use complicate

complicate matters (collocation)

To make a situation more difficult or problematic. — "Don't complicate matters by bringing up old arguments."

complicate life (collocation)

To make one's own existence more difficult or stressful. — "She tends to complicate her life with unnecessary drama."

complicate [something] (prepositional phrase)

To make a specific thing more complex or difficult. — "The new regulations will complicate the process for small businesses."

Synonyms of complicate

Words with a similar meaning to complicate:

• confuse
• entangle
• obfuscate

Antonyms of complicate

Words with the opposite meaning to complicate:

• simplify
• clarify

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