Word: intricate

Associations

The word "intricate" means something that is very detailed, complicated, or has many parts. It often describes patterns, designs, or situations that are not simple.

• Example 1: The artist created an intricate design for the mural. (This means the design had many details or was complex.)
• Example 2: The plot of the book was intricate and kept readers guessing. (This suggests the story had many twists and turns.)
• Example 3: She wore an intricate necklace that sparkled in the light. (Here, the necklace had detailed craftsmanship.)

A well-known synonym for "intricate" is "complex." The key difference is that "complex" may refer to something that is difficult to understand, while "intricate" emphasizes the detailed and delicate nature of something.

Substitution

You can use words like "complicated," "detailed," or "elaborate" in place of "intricate," but each carries a slightly different meaning:

• Complicated suggests something difficult to understand.
• Detailed emphasizes the number of small parts or features.
• Elaborate means something that is developed in a very careful and detailed way.

Deconstruction

• The root of "intricate" comes from the Latin "intricatus," which means "entangled" or "complex."
• There is no prefix, and the suffix "-ate" often means "having the quality of" or "to make."

The word is related to the idea of intertwining parts, which helps explain why it describes something that is detailed or complex.

Inquiry

• Can you think of a time when you have seen something intricate, like a piece of art or a machine? What did it look like?
• How do you feel when you encounter something intricate? Does it inspire you or make you feel confused?
• Can you think of a situation in your life that was intricate? What made it so complicated or detailed?