complicate
verb (used with object)
to make complex, intricate, involved, or difficult.
had complicated
-
past perfectof complicate.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
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.
Beyond logistical complications, the palace believed the legal judgement expected Tuesday had complicated matters as it could compromise the king's constitutional position, the PA news agency reported.
From Barron's ● Jul. 6, 2026
Minutes from the Fed’s March 17-18 meeting, released Wednesday, underscored that the war hadn’t created the Fed’s reluctance to cut so much as it had complicated an already-cautious posture.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Apr. 8, 2026
They both had complicated family histories marked by loss and trauma, and had found peace with one another.
From BBC ● Dec. 14, 2024
If anybody reads the book, know that you’re reading about the experience of somebody who along the way had complicated views of their own gender and fear of being outed.
From Slate ● May 18, 2024
On the long train ride from the countryside, Celia lost her mother’s face, the lies that had complicated her mouth.
From "Dreaming in Cuban" by Cristina García
