Convoluted
mediumNegative toneKON-vuh-loo-tid
adjective
Definition
extremely complex and intricate; hard to follow
Memory hook
conVOLUTED: think of a road 'con-VOLVED' into endless coils and loops, twisting until you're hopelessly lost.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The plot grew so convoluted that readers lost track of who betrayed whom.”
“Her convoluted explanation only deepened our confusion.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The plot grew so ______ that readers lost track of who betrayed whom.”
Show answer
convoluted
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Convoluted is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "intricate" or "tangled" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "straightforward".
Related GRE Words
involved
Complicated or difficult to understand; intricate
eclectic
drawing from a diverse range of sources or styles
enigma
A puzzling person or thing; something mysterious or inexplicable
salient
most noticeable, prominent, or important
stringent
strict, precise, and demanding in requirement or standard
subtle
delicately complex, faint, or not obvious
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