intricacies
Intricacies (noun) means the small, complicated details of something that make it hard to understand or do well. Example: “He spent years learning the intricacies of the tax code.”
How to Use Intricacies
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe fiddly little details that make something complicated.
Neutral to slightly formal. Almost always used in the plural.
The singular intricacy exists but is rare; in practice this word lives in the phrase the intricacies of.
Trace the full origin ↓Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
He spent years learning the _____ of the tax code.
Etymology
From Latin intricare, "to entangle", from tricae, meaning trifles or perplexities.
Synonyms
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Related Words
Rhymes for intricacies
See all rhymes for intricacies →Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between intricacies and complexities?
Complexities suggest a system with many interacting parts and can feel daunting or messy. Intricacies suggest fine, detailed workings that reward close attention. You untangle complexities but you appreciate intricacies.
Can you use intricacy in the singular?
Yes, but it is uncommon. The singular usually names the quality itself, as in "the intricacy of the design", while the plural names the individual details.
Is intricacies a positive or negative word?
It is broadly neutral and often mildly admiring. Calling something intricate implies skilled, detailed work, whereas calling it complicated implies unnecessary difficulty.