Definition of intricatenext

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 band rides for Arto Lindsay and gamelan records but also Gentle Giant’s hyper-intricate prog, and John Scofield’s Bonnaroo-funk outing Überjam. Christopher R. Weingarten, Pitchfork, 3 Apr. 2026 Chip designers and manufacturers try to squeeze as much computing power as possible onto each individual chip, fabricated on silicon wafers in a manufacturing process that relies on highly specialized equipment and requires thousands of intricate steps. Jared Perlo, NBC news, 2 Apr. 2026 Her practice focuses on divorces involving intricate financial structures like hedge funds, private equity, and venture capital. Nia Bowers, USA Today, 1 Apr. 2026 Measuring around 36-by-29 feet, the intricate tilework included 35 medallions featuring various arena scenes. Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 1 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for intricate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for intricate
Adjective
  • And in South Florida groups have stepped in to support migrants navigating complicated immigration processes, from deportation to self-deportation, often filling gaps left by government systems.
    Lauren Costantino, Miami Herald, 4 Apr. 2026
  • But determining what percentage of the population would stay and fight is complicated.
    Stephanie Yang, CNN Money, 4 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • More smart scales are now including a handlebar to provide detailed insights into fat and muscle distribution across different parts of the body.
    Andrew Gebhart, PC Magazine, 5 Apr. 2026
  • The detailed biographies of every correspondent make, in themselves, a whole picture of the cultural and political life of the early twentieth century.
    Hermione Lee, The New York Review of Books, 4 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Then set aside time to file electronically, use tax software or meet with a professional if your finances are more complex.
    Alora Bopray, USA Today, 4 Apr. 2026
  • In addition to the waste from duplication, the DA has noted that the new unit could threaten complex cases involving coordination with the state attorney general and end up prematurely settling cases that are part of larger investigations.
    Adam Summers, San Diego Union-Tribune, 3 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Jensen, the Royals’ top prospect, didn’t make up an elaborate lie.
    Scott Thompson, FOXNews.com, 3 Apr. 2026
  • Jenner's retirement from her elaborate costumes seems to have begun in 2025.
    Skyler Caruso, PEOPLE, 3 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • These are common but complicate long-term planning for federal agencies.
    Hollie Silverman, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Sep. 2025
  • Despite differing views on a variety of security issues, the group, like Gilpatric’s, reached a clear consensus: nuclear proliferation by any additional country would diminish U.S. power, complicate strategic planning, and increase the likelihood of nuclear use, accidents, and disasters.
    MARIANO-FLORENTINO CUÉLLAR, Foreign Affairs, 25 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • The spa Set over 27,000 square feet and four floors; the elegant Guerlain Spa and Pillar Wellbeing was created by the studio Goddard Littlefair.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 5 Apr. 2026
  • Cabins are rustically elegant and come with one to four bedrooms.
    Julie Bielenberg, USA Today, 4 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Her middle name isn’t a very sophisticated one.
    Abigail Van Buren, Boston Herald, 4 Apr. 2026
  • Buying artificial or natural flowers that are in season is a great way to create a sophisticated environment for your event.
    BestReviews, Mercury News, 3 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Intricate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/intricate. Accessed 6 Apr. 2026.

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