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 exchange of attacks could complicate continuing U.S.-Iran negotiations to end the conflict between the two countries and might put at risk the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 3, 2026

Would keeping the CDs in place make the estate process simpler, or complicate things?

From MarketWatch • May 27, 2026

That could further complicate reform efforts by Faye, who sacked his former ally Sonko on Friday after months of tensions.

From Barron's • May 24, 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

The properties of historical systems that complicate attempts at prediction can be described in several alternative ways.

From "Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies" by Jared M. Diamond

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