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 This phase of the series illustrates the intricate psychological tactics used in espionage, where family bonds and loyalty become tools for manipulation and control. Isabella Wandermurem, Time, 13 Aug. 2025 According to Angi, homeowners can expect to pay up to $7,000 for a basic stamped concrete patio design, while more intricate designs can cost up to $18,9001. Installation. Kamron Sanders, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 Aug. 2025 Lee Anne Schmitt’s fleet and intricate essay film about the Olin Corporation, a longtime manufacturer of ammunition and chemicals, considers the company’s seemingly bottomless reach in modern life and its place in her own family. Christian Zilko, IndieWire, 7 Aug. 2025 Metallic gold elements, cotton jacquards and intricate embroideries are central to the romantic theme. Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 6 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for intricate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for intricate
Adjective
  • Some say the video represents a rising crime problem in the city, but crime statistics paint a more complicated picture.
    Dan Horn, The Enquirer, 14 Aug. 2025
  • The Code Talkers developed an extensive and complicated code based on their own language, which substituted key military and geographical terms for related images.
    Rob Picheta, CNN Money, 14 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • The quarterly rebalanced mix of large-, mid- and small-cap RV Portfolio stocks provided a responsive way to make the most of upbeat market conditions while limiting losses when markets head south, as detailed in RV Portfolio performance metrics.
    Trefis Team, Forbes.com, 16 Aug. 2025
  • The launchable model is a detailed recreation of the Falcon 9 and retails for $149.99.
    Space.com Staff, Space.com, 16 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • Navigating shifting federal priorities, complex public-private partnerships and global supply chain risks requires proactive engagement across governments, private investors and communities to secure sustainable capital and manage geopolitical uncertainties.
    Khaled Naja, Forbes.com, 14 Aug. 2025
  • Parrilla has the more complex role; Bruiser is unprincipled and lacking in shame, yet generally correct and fair.
    Daniel Fienberg, HollywoodReporter, 14 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • The trailer reveals Park’s character Yun Yi-rang transforming from socialite to business mogul while executing elaborate schemes against corrupt villains.
    Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 18 Aug. 2025
  • Suddenly, after previously resigning himself to a lifetime of confinement, David decides to stage an elaborate prison break — with some help — and goes on the run in order to find out what really happened to his only child.
    Max Gao, HollywoodReporter, 18 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • Tariffs, trade wars and economic uncertainty complicate operations and planning.
    Simon Dae Oong Kim, Forbes.com, 6 June 2025
  • Now, sometimes the people or circumstances around us complicate that endeavor.
    R. Eric Thomas, Denver Post, 4 June 2025
Adjective
  • Suddenly, a classic white T-shirt and jeans combo has become dynamic, interesting, and highly elegant.
    Paulina Berges, Glamour, 16 Aug. 2025
  • The balloon sleeves make your outfit more elegant without trying.
    Nicol Natale, People.com, 15 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • Those on the other side of the equation—the fraudsters—are sophisticated actors and are willing to dedicate time and money to see a scam through.
    Kelly Phillips Erb, Forbes.com, 15 Aug. 2025
  • Nearly three decades later, Daft Punk arguably upped the ante with its sophisticated synthesizer opus for the franchise’s second film, 2010’s Tron: Legacy, which peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard 200.
    Joe Lynch, Billboard, 15 Aug. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Intricate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/intricate. Accessed 24 Aug. 2025.

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