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複雑
fukuzatsu
complex
この機械の構造はとても複雑です。
The structure of this machine is very complex.
neutral
Consisting of many interconnected parts or elements; intricate.
人間関係は時々複雑になることがあります。
Human relationships can sometimes become complex.
この問題は非常に複雑な要因が絡んでいます。
This issue involves very complex factors.
Used to describe systems, relationships, or situations with many interrelated parts.
Pro Tip
Avoid overusing 複雑
While 複雑 is versatile, it can sound overly formal or vague in casual conversation. Consider more specific terms like めんどくさい (troublesome) or ややこしい (complicated) depending on the context.
Gold Rule
Use 複雑 for systems, not emotions
複雑 describes systems, structures, or situations—not emotions. For feelings, use words like 悩ましい (distressing) or 煩わしい (annoying).
Word Origin
From Middle Chinese 複雑 (fù zá), meaning 'compound' or 'intricate'. The kanji 複 (fuku) means 'duplicate' or 'compound', and 雑 (zatsu) means 'mixed' or 'varied'.
Usage Notes
Commonly used in both technical and everyday contexts to describe anything with many interconnected parts or layers. Often paired with の to modify nouns (e.g., 複雑な仕組み).
Word Breakdown
複
duplicate / compound
kanji雑
mixed / varied
kanji和英辞典