overcomplicate

overcomplicate — verb

1. to add more steps, parts, or details to something than are needed, so that it be

1.動詞及物C1
釋義

to add more steps, parts, or details to something than are needed, so that it becomes harder to understand, do, or explain

例句

Hugo loves to overcomplicate simple recipes by adding too many spices.

common object: a simple task or recipe

Please do not overcomplicate the school project; a short poster is enough.

imperative + object 'the school project'

同義詞
  • complicate

    neutral; does not include the idea of 'too much' or 'unnecessarily'

  • overengineer

    stresses too much design or technical work, often about products or systems

  • overthink

    focuses on thinking too much, not on adding parts to a real task or object

反義詞
  • simplify

    to make something easier to do or understand by removing extra parts

  • streamline

    to make a process faster and more efficient by cutting unnecessary steps

文法句型

overcomplicate + noun (process / plan / explanation)

用法筆記

Subject is usually a person, team, or process; object is often a plan, task, design, explanation, or rule. Often used with a warning or criticism (negative imperative, 'tend to', 'try not to').

常見錯誤

❌The exam was overcomplicated by Antonia.
✅Antonia overcomplicated the exam.
💡the active form is much more natural; passive 'be overcomplicated' is rare and sounds awkward.
❌Do not over-complex the report.
✅Do not overcomplicate the report.
💡'overcomplex' is not a standard verb; the verb is always 'overcomplicate'.