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.

A continued moderation in inflation is critical to supporting stock valuations, while a prolonged rise in oil prices could complicate that path.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026

Stephen Innes, managing partner at SPI Asset Management, said in written commentary shared with MarketWatch that if Trump follows through, it would complicate the outlook for markets.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 30, 2026

If the Maldives did file a legal case, it would further complicate the UK's deal with Mauritius.

From BBC • Mar. 27, 2026

Investors will be parsing whether Fed officials flag stress in credit markets or funding conditions that could complicate the rate outlook.

From Barron's • Mar. 26, 2026

And just to complicate matters perfecdy, I was starting to feel responsible for their safety and happiness and got panicked at the idea of them being captured or corrupted by the outside world.

From "How I Live Now" by Meg Rosoff

Vocabulary lists containing complicate

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