verb to make something more difficult or confusing
In scientific research, adding more variables can complicate the analysis process.
Complicated financial instruments can be difficult to understand and manage.
Complications can arise during surgeries, leading to longer recovery times.
Complicated software systems require more maintenance and troubleshooting.
Complicated designs may be harder to manufacture and maintain.
In a professional context, the word 'complicate' may be used by writers to describe adding layers of complexity to a plot or character in order to create a more engaging story.
Psychologists may use the term 'complicate' when discussing how certain factors can make a situation more difficult to understand or resolve, such as complicating factors in a patient's mental health diagnosis.
Engineers may use 'complicate' to describe how additional requirements or constraints can make a design or project more complex and challenging to complete.
Lawyers may use 'complicate' to refer to how certain legal issues or loopholes can make a case more difficult to argue or win in court.
Doctors may use 'complicate' when discussing how underlying health conditions or complications can make a patient's treatment more challenging or risky.