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March 24, 2026
复杂(複雜)fùzá(fu4za2)
复杂 (fu4 za2) refers to something that is complicated or complex, often involving multiple interconnected parts or ideas. It can describe situations, problems, or even feelings that are not straightforward. Commonly used in both academic and everyday contexts, it suggests a level of intricacy that requires careful consideration or analysis.
Strokes15Frequency#1517DifficultyMedium
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of 复杂 can reflect the intricate nature of relationships and social dynamics, where interactions are often multilayered and context-dependent. This complexity is sometimes viewed positively, as a sign of depth and richness in social life.
Memory Tip
Imagine a 'fuzzy' (fu) maze that is 'zany' (za) with twists and turns. The more twists and turns there are in a maze, the more complex and complicated it becomes, just like the character 复杂, which combines the idea of being intricate with its pronunciation.
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AI Study Notes for 复杂
Quick Contrast
复杂 (fùzá) vs 繁琐 (fánsuǒ) — use 复杂 for intricate systems or ideas, while 繁琐 emphasizes excessive detail and tediousness.
Usage Notes
Be careful not to confuse 复杂 with 简单 (jiǎn dān), which means simple. 复杂 is often used in formal discussions, such as in academic writing or technical conversations. Common collocations include 复杂的问题 (complex problem) and 复杂的关系 (complicated relationship).
HSK Study Tips
As HSK Level 4 vocabulary, 复杂 connects to other words describing conditions or states, such as 简单 (simple) and 明确 (clear). Students should focus on using it in context, especially in discussions about topics that require detailed explanations.
Common Mistakes
Learners often misuse 复杂 in contexts where 简单 (simple) would be more appropriate, such as saying '这件事情很复杂' (This matter is very complex) when it is actually straightforward. Always assess the context before choosing the word.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 复杂
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复杂 (fu4 za2) refers to something that is complicated or complex, often involving multiple interconnected parts or ideas. It can describe situations, problems, or even feelings that are not straightforward. Commonly used in both academic and everyday contexts, it suggests a level of intricacy that requires careful consideration or analysis.
When to use 复杂
Be careful not to confuse 复杂 with 简单 (jiǎn dān), which means simple. 复杂 is often used in formal discussions, such as in academic writing or technical conversations. Common collocations include 复杂的问题 (complex problem) and 复杂的关系 (complicated relationship).
复杂 or something close to it
复杂 (fùzá) vs 繁琐 (fánsuǒ) — use 复杂 for intricate systems or ideas, while 繁琐 emphasizes excessive detail and tediousness.
What learners get wrong
Learners often misuse 复杂 in contexts where 简单 (simple) would be more appropriate, such as saying '这件事情很复杂' (This matter is very complex) when it is actually straightforward. Always assess the context before choosing the word.
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Grammar Patterns of 复杂
复杂 functions as an adjective. In Chinese it behaves like a stative verb: place it directly after the subject without 是 (我很高，not 我是高). Use 不 to negate (不高) and pair it with 很 in plain affirmative sentences. It carries 2 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
This math problem is too complex; I need to spend more time to solve it.
12
她在复杂的人际关系中找到了平衡。
Tā zài fùzá de rénjì guānxì zhōng zhǎodào le pínghéng.
She found balance in complex interpersonal relationships.
13
这个数学题太复杂了，我需要更多的时间来解决。
Zhè gè shùxué tí tài fùzá le, wǒ xūyào gèng duō de shíjiān lái jiějué.
This math problem is too complex, I need more time to solve it.
14
她给我讲了一个复杂的故事，我听了好几遍才明白。
Tā gěi wǒ jiǎng le yī gè fùzá de gùshì, wǒ tīng le hǎo jǐ biàn cái míngbái.
She told me a complex story, and I had to listen several times to understand.
15
这个数学题太复杂了，我需要更多的时间来解决。
Zhè gè shùxué tí tài fùzá le, wǒ xūyào gèng duō de shíjiān lái jiějué.
This math problem is too complex, I need more time to solve it.
16
她给我讲了一个复杂的故事，我听了好几遍才明白。
Tā gěi wǒ jiǎng le yī gè fùzá de gùshì, wǒ tīng le hǎo jǐ biàn cái míngbái.
She told me a complex story, and I had to listen several times to understand.
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Cultural Notes for 复杂
🌏Cross-cultural Insight
In Western cultures, complexity is often seen as a challenge to be simplified, whereas in Chinese culture, it may be embraced as an inherent part of life and relationships.
Frequently Asked Questions about 复杂
You can say, '这个问题很复杂' (This problem is very complicated).
复杂 is mostly used in formal contexts, such as academic discussions or professional environments.
Yes, you can say, '我的感情很复杂' (My feelings are very complicated).
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