complicate

[kom-pli-keyt, kom-pli-kit] / ˈkɒm plɪˌkeɪt, ˈkɒm plɪ kɪt /

VERB

confuse, make difficult

Synonyms

STRONGEST

convolute impede involve muddle obscure perplex upset

STRONG

bedevil clog combine confound derange disarrange disorder elaborate embroil entangle fold interrelate interweave jumble multiply ravel snafu snag tangle twist

WEAK

add fuel to fire foul up infold interfuse make intricate make waves mix up muck up open can of worms render unintelligible screw up snarl up

Antonyms

STRONGEST

clear up enlighten explain order

STRONG

arrange clarify divide exclude free straighten uncomplicate untangle untwist

WEAK

disentangle ease facilitate make simple

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The decision could complicate the choices towns make regarding coverage.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 23, 2026

It would complicate what Altman described as an otherwise strong backdrop for the U.S. economy.

From MarketWatch • May 18, 2026

Were China to lower its trade with Russia, considering the breakdown of relations with the West, it would significantly complicate Russia's foreign policy objectives.

From BBC • May 18, 2026

But there are undeniably warring interests that complicate the publication’s motivation.

From Slate • May 5, 2026

He, after all, had no standards of manliness, of virility, to complicate his pride.

From "The Left Hand of Darkness" by Ursula K. Le Guin

Vocabulary lists containing complicate

Tier 2 Words for the SBAC ELA Items

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

"What, of This Goldfish, Would You Wish?" Vocabulary from the short story

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Essential English Vocabulary, List 4

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!