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 Brooke Burke addresses critics who believe her morning routine is too difficult Some Instagram users praised Burke for sharing her intricate routine. Janelle Ash , Larry Fink, FOXNews.com, 12 May 2025 On a major league baseball field, the mowing direction plays a big part in creating the intricate outfield designs and signature stripes in the lawn. Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 May 2025 Golijov’s score is also unanswerable, full of electronic effects, where the sound of gunshots beat out intricate dance rhythms. Mark Swed, Los Angeles Times, 9 May 2025 With vibrant colors and intricate patterns, these pollinators are appreciated for more than just their environmental impact. Tracy Scott Forson, Smithsonian Magazine, 9 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for intricate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for intricate
Adjective
  • The plan gets more complicated than that and addresses other issues, but the main point is that the Republican proposal is a dramatic improvement over the current system.
    Matt Fleming, Oc Register, 10 May 2025
  • Clearly the Red Sox misread things here, but with Devers the situation is a little more complicated.
    Mac Cerullo, Boston Herald, 10 May 2025
Adjective
  • Overall, the cabin is finely detailed, comfortable, and luxurious.
    Jonny Lieberman, Robb Report, 12 May 2025
  • Sleep tracking is shockingly detailed, tracking things like skin temperature and even snoring.
    Shubham Yewale, PC Magazine, 12 May 2025
Adjective
  • Now, a new Netflix documentary is taking a closer look at the tragic — and complex — story.
    Lynsey Eidell, People.com, 10 May 2025
  • But this year’s state budget negotiations are far most complex than usual, given the uncertain future of Medicaid, a federal health care entitlement program run in cooperation with states.
    Keith M. Phaneuf, Hartford Courant, 10 May 2025
Adjective
  • The series stars the Twisters actor as a disgraced college football player who dons elaborate makeup to assume a new identity and play for a different team.
    Wesley Stenzel, EW.com, 14 May 2025
  • The great argus is an at-risk species with an elaborate pattern of eyespots on its tail feathers, according to Thai National Parks.
    Aspen Pflughoeft, Miami Herald, 14 May 2025
Adjective
  • Left unmanaged, these issues can disrupt family dynamics, derail careers, deplete wealth and complicate legacy planning.
    John Samuels, Forbes.com, 22 Apr. 2025
  • Shifting trade policies, geopolitical risks, supply shortages and evolving regulatory landscapes all complicate decision-making.
    Sarah Jones, Sourcing Journal, 10 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • To bring back that upscale aesthetic, the Casino Royal will have a dress code that requires jackets for men and elegant dress for women.
    Rhonda Richford, Footwear News, 13 May 2025
  • This 2009 Chardonnay has aged gracefully with a very complex bouquet of crème brûlée, peach cobbler and a hint of saltwater taffy with an incredible texture that gives it an overall elegant feeling and a very, very long finish laced with mineral aromas.
    Cathrine Todd, Forbes.com, 12 May 2025
Adjective
  • Micro-fulfillment centers come with their own risks, such as a heavy reliance on sophisticated robotics that can cause disruptions if errors occur.
    Annika Kim Constantino, CNBC, 11 May 2025
  • Practical welt pockets, button closures, and adjustable cuffs maintain functionality, while thoughtful tonal stitching keeps the aesthetic sophisticated.
    Pooja Shah, Forbes.com, 11 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Intricate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/intricate. Accessed 22 May. 2025.

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