complejo
/komˈplexo/
The English word 'complex' is translated into Spanish as complejo. Wiktionary also lists complexo.
Meaning: not simple or straightforward (adj)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA |
|---|---|
| complejo | /komˈplexo/ |
| complexo | /kompleɡso/ (from spelling rules) |
The primary use of complejo is as an adjective to describe something that is not simple or straightforward. It is also used as a noun to refer to a collection of buildings or a psychological complex. Additionally, the related verb complejizar means to form a complex with another substance.
Which one should you use?
While the adjective complejo describes something intricate, the same word can also function as a noun meaning 'a complex', such as a building complex or a psychological complex.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
As an adjective, complejo must agree in gender and number with the noun it modifies. Use compleja for feminine singular nouns, complejos for masculine plural nouns and complejas for feminine plural nouns.
How do you pronounce it?
/komˈplexo/
Did you know?
- The Spanish adjective complejo shares a common ancestor with the English word 'pleat' through the Latin root 'plectere', which means 'to braid' or 'to weave'.
- The word complejo can be used as a noun to describe an inferiority complex. In this psychological context, saying someone tiene complejos implies they are insecure about their appearance or personality.
- While complejo describes something intricate, the Spanish word 'enredado' is often preferred by native speakers to describe a 'complex' or 'tangled' situation.
Examples in context
- El caso es complejo.The case is complex.This sentence illustrates the use of complejo to describe a case.Tatoeba #7996314 by Seael, translation #5754356 by CM
- Este caso es complejo.This case is complex.This sentence demonstrates the use of complejo to describe a specific case.Tatoeba #7996226 by Seael, translation #4494711 by CK
- Éste es un problema muy complejo.This is a very complex problem.This sentence shows how to use complejo when describing a problem.Tatoeba #5714070 by arh, translation #5701399 by Hybrid
- Mi trabajo es complicado.My job is complex.
- El problema matemático es complejo.The math problem is complex.
- La película tiene un argumento elaborado.The movie has a complex storyline.
- La situación política es difícil de entender.The political situation is difficult to understand.
- El reporte contiene información densa.The report contains complex information.
- No te metas en ese asunto, es muy liado.Don't get involved in that matter, it's very complex.
- 26 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Javier and Lucía are discussing a difficult math problem.
- JavierEste ejercicio es muy complejo.This exercise is very complex.
- LucíaSí, la solución es compleja.Yes, the solution is complex.
- Javier¿Necesitas ayuda con él?Do you need help with it?
- LucíaNo, creo que lo entiendo.No, I think I understand it.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “complex” translations and entries complejo, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries complejo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
