Translation guide
The English word "intricate" describes something with many complex, detailed parts that fit together in a complicated way. In Japanese, the most common and natural way to express this depends on what is being described: physical objects, abstract systems, or artistic details.
Describing something that has many small, interconnected parts or details, making it complex.
The internal structure of this machine is very intricate.
His explanation was intricate and hard to understand.
Literally 'tangled' or 'complicatedly intertwined'. Often used for physical layouts, streets, plots, or relationships that are convoluted and hard to navigate or unravel.
I got lost in the intricate alleyways.
There were intricate human relationships behind the incident.
Similar to 入り組んだ, but often implies a messy or overly detailed complexity, like a complicated procedure or a tangled story.
Intricate procedures are required.
The story has become intricate.
Describing something with fine, precise, and often beautiful details, like artwork, patterns, or craftsmanship.
Means 'exquisite' or 'elaborate', emphasizing fine craftsmanship and precision. Commonly used for mechanical devices, models, or detailed artwork.
This watch has intricate workmanship.
I was impressed by the intricate miniature model.
Means 'meticulous' or 'minutely detailed'. Often used for plans, calculations, or artwork that shows great attention to detail.
A very common word meaning 'fine' or 'detailed'. It can be used for intricate work, but it's more general and less emphatic than 精巧 or 緻密.
Describing stories, schemes, or relationships that are convoluted and hard to follow.
Again, the most versatile choice. Works perfectly for intricate plots or relationships.
The novel has an intricate plot.
Emphasizes the tangled, intertwined nature of the complexity.
A more formal, literary term meaning 'complicated' or 'intricate', often used for complex situations or information.
複雑 (fukuzatsu) is the most general and can be used for almost any kind of complexity. 入り組んだ (irikunda) specifically implies physical or metaphorical intertwining, like tangled threads or convoluted plots. 込み入った (komiitta) often suggests a messy, overly detailed complexity that is bothersome.
a complex/intricate problem
intricate/tangled roads
intricate/complicated circumstances
While 複雑 can mean intricate, it often carries a nuance of 'difficult' or 'problematic'. For intricate beauty or craftsmanship, 精巧 (seikou) or 緻密 (chimitsu) are much better choices.
intricate design (positive nuance)
It's pottery painted with an intricate pattern.
I'm amazed by his intricate planning.
The intricate embroidery is beautiful.
An intricate conspiracy was revealed.
To sort out intricate information.
complicated design (could be negative)