When something is intrincado, it means it's really detailed or has many parts that are connected in a complex way. Think of a puzzle with lots of pieces, or a very detailed drawing. It's not simple or easy to understand quickly. This word describes things that are complicated.
When something is intrincado, it means it's intricate, complex, or very detailed and possibly convoluted. Think of a very tangled knot or a difficult puzzle. You might use it to describe a complicated plot in a book, a complex piece of machinery, or even a very elaborate design.
For example, if you're trying to follow a story with many twists and turns, you could say the plot is intrincado. Or, if you see a piece of jewelry with very fine and detailed work, you could also describe it as intrincado. It conveys a sense of something being elaborate and not easily understood at first glance.
When something is intrincado, it's not just a little complex; it's extremely detailed, convoluted, or tangled. Think of a very elaborate puzzle, a labyrinthine plot, or a highly complicated machine with many interconnected parts. It suggests a level of complexity that can be difficult to follow or understand. This word is often used to describe designs, explanations, or situations that are highly involved and perhaps a bit difficult to navigate.
§ Understanding 'intrincado'
The Spanish word 'intrincado' is an adjective, not a noun, and it means 'intricate,' 'complex,' 'very detailed,' or 'convoluted.' It's often used to describe situations, problems, designs, or systems that are difficult to understand or navigate due to their many interconnected parts.
- Word Type
- Adjective
- Common Translations
- Intricate, complex, convoluted, elaborate, involved, tangled
§ Basic Sentence Structure with 'intrincado'
As an adjective, 'intrincado' will agree in gender and number with the noun it modifies. This is a fundamental rule in Spanish grammar. So, if you're talking about a 'problema' (masculine singular), you'll use 'intrincado.' If it's 'situaciones' (feminine plural), you'll use 'intrincadas.'
- El problema es intrincado. (The problem is intricate.)
- La red de calles es intrincada. (The network of streets is intricate.)
- Los detalles eran intrincados. (The details were intricate.)
- Las instrucciones eran intrincadas. (The instructions were intricate.)
§ 'intrincado' with Common Verbs
You'll often find 'intrincado' used with verbs like 'ser' (to be) and 'estar' (to be). Remember, 'ser' is for inherent qualities or definitions, and 'estar' is for states or conditions. In most cases, 'intrincado' describes an inherent quality of something, so 'ser' is more common.
El diseño de la máquina es muy intrincado.
- Translation hint
- The design of the machine is very intricate.
La trama de la novela era tan intrincada que me perdí.
- Translation hint
- The plot of the novel was so intricate that I got lost.
§ 'intrincado' with Prepositions
While 'intrincado' itself doesn't demand specific prepositions, it's often followed by prepositions that describe how or why something is intricate. Common prepositions you might see are 'por' (by, for) or 'debido a' (due to).
La burocracia era tan intrincada por las regulaciones.
- Translation hint
- The bureaucracy was so intricate due to the regulations.
Explicó el sistema intrincado con mucha paciencia.
- Translation hint
- He explained the intricate system with a lot of patience.
§ Advanced Usage and Nuances
You can use 'intrincado' to describe abstract concepts as well as physical objects. For example, a theory can be intricate, or a piece of art.
La filosofía moderna puede ser bastante intrincada para los principiantes.
- Translation hint
- Modern philosophy can be quite intricate for beginners.
El mecanismo del reloj antiguo era muy intrincado, una verdadera obra de arte.
- Translation hint
- The mechanism of the antique clock was very intricate, a true work of art.
You can also use adverbs to modify 'intrincado,' such as 'muy' (very), 'bastante' (quite), or 'extremadamente' (extremely), to emphasize the degree of intricacy.
§ Understanding 'Intrincado'
You're learning Spanish, and that's great! Let's get straight to it. Today, we're looking at the word intrincado. This isn't a beginner word, but it's super useful for describing things that aren't simple. Think of it as a step up from just 'difficult'.
- DEFINITION
- Intricate, complex, very detailed or convoluted.
So, when would you actually hear or use this word? It's all about context. Let's break down where intrincado naturally appears in Spanish conversations, work, school, and even the news.
§ At Work
In a professional setting, you'll hear intrincado when people are talking about complicated systems, processes, or problems. It's often used to describe challenges that require careful thought and detailed understanding.
- Technical Projects: If you're in tech, engineering, or any field with complex systems, you'll definitely come across it.
- Legal or Bureaucratic Matters: Laws, regulations, and official procedures can often be quite convoluted.
- Problem Solving: When a problem isn't straightforward, intrincado fits perfectly.
El sistema de gestión de proyectos es bastante intrincado y requiere mucha capacitación. (The project management system is quite intricate and requires a lot of training.)
Resolvimos un problema intrincado en el código esta mañana. (We solved an intricate problem in the code this morning.)
§ In School or Academia
When you're studying or discussing academic topics, intrincado comes up frequently. It's used to describe theories, arguments, or concepts that have many interconnected parts.
- Philosophy and Literature: Complex ideas and narratives are often described this way.
- Science: Biological processes, mathematical equations, or scientific theories can be intricate.
- History: Historical events with many intertwined causes and effects.
La trama de la novela es bastante intrincada con muchos giros. (The novel's plot is quite intricate with many twists.)
Explicó la teoría con un nivel de detalle tan intrincado que pocos lo entendieron. (He explained the theory with such an intricate level of detail that few understood it.)
§ In the News
News reporters and analysts use intrincado when reporting on situations that are not straightforward. This often applies to politics, economics, or social issues with many interconnected factors.
- Political Negotiations: Deals that involve many parties and compromises.
- Economic Crises: When economic problems have deep, multifaceted roots.
- Social Issues: Complex societal problems with no easy solutions.
Las negociaciones de paz son un proceso intrincado. (The peace negotiations are an intricate process.)
El periodista explicó la intrincada red de corrupción. (The journalist explained the intricate network of corruption.)
§ Key Takeaway
When you hear or use intrincado, it's a signal that something is more than just difficult. It implies a level of complexity, detail, or convolution that needs to be carefully unraveled. Adding this word to your vocabulary will make your Spanish sound much more natural and precise, especially when discussing sophisticated topics.
Pronunciation Guide
- incorrect stress on 'i'
- mispronouncing 'r'
Difficulty Rating
The word itself is a bit longer, but context usually helps.
Spelling is straightforward but remembering to use it accurately in context might take practice.
Pronunciation is manageable, but integrating it naturally into conversation requires practice.
Can be understood in context, especially if the speaker enunciates clearly.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Adjective agreement: Adjectives in Spanish must agree in gender and number with the noun they modify.
El diseño intrincado (masculine singular). La situación intrincada (feminine singular).
Position of adjectives: Descriptive adjectives like 'intrincado' typically follow the noun.
Un patrón intrincado. Una red intrincada.
Using 'ser' with adjectives: 'Ser' is used with adjectives to describe inherent qualities or characteristics that are generally permanent.
La arquitectura es intrincada. Su personalidad es intrincada.
Using adverbs to modify 'intrincado': Adverbs can be used to intensify or qualify 'intrincado'.
Extremadamente intrincado. Muy intrincado.
Synonyms and antonyms: While not a grammar rule, understanding related words helps in practical application. Synonyms for 'intrincado' include 'complicado', 'enrevesado', 'laberíntico'. Antonyms include 'sencillo', 'simple', 'claro'.
El problema era complicado (synonym). Una solución sencilla (antonym).
Examples by Level
El diseño del laberinto era muy intrincado.
The design of the maze was very intricate.
La historia de la película es un poco intrincada, pero interesante.
The movie's story is a bit complex, but interesting.
Resolver este problema matemático es intrincado.
Solving this math problem is intricate.
El bordado del vestido era intrincado y hermoso.
The embroidery on the dress was intricate and beautiful.
Sus explicaciones eran a veces un poco intrincadas.
His explanations were sometimes a bit convoluted.
Crear un reloj así de pequeño es un trabajo intrincado.
Creating such a small watch is intricate work.
La red de tuberías era muy intrincada.
The network of pipes was very intricate.
Entender la política local puede ser intrincado.
Understanding local politics can be complex.
La trama de la película era tan intrincada que tuve que verla dos veces para entenderla por completo.
The movie's plot was so intricate that I had to watch it twice to fully understand it.
Here, 'intrincada' modifies 'trama' (plot), which is a feminine noun, so the adjective also takes the feminine form.
El diseño de ese reloj antiguo es realmente intrincado, lleno de pequeños engranajes y mecanismos.
The design of that antique watch is truly intricate, full of tiny gears and mechanisms.
'intrincado' modifies 'diseño' (design), a masculine noun, hence the masculine form of the adjective.
Resolví un problema matemático bastante intrincado que me llevó horas de concentración.
I solved a rather intricate math problem that took me hours of concentration.
'intrincado' modifies 'problema' (problem), a masculine noun. Note 'bastante' (quite/rather) used to intensify the adjective.
Las instrucciones para montar el mueble eran tan intrincadas que casi me rindo.
The instructions for assembling the furniture were so intricate that I almost gave up.
'intrincadas' modifies 'instrucciones' (instructions), a feminine plural noun, so the adjective is also feminine plural.
El sistema legal es a menudo intrincado y difícil de navegar para la gente común.
The legal system is often intricate and difficult for ordinary people to navigate.
'intrincado' modifies 'sistema legal' (legal system), a masculine singular noun.
Creó un bordado intrincado con hilos de colores, una verdadera obra de arte.
She created an intricate embroidery with colored threads, a true work of art.
'intrincado' modifies 'bordado' (embroidery), a masculine singular noun.
La red de relaciones en la novela era muy intrincada, con muchos personajes conectados.
The network of relationships in the novel was very intricate, with many connected characters.
'intrincada' modifies 'red' (network), a feminine singular noun.
Me sorprendió la naturaleza intrincada de las cuevas, con sus pasajes estrechos y formaciones rocosas.
I was surprised by the intricate nature of the caves, with their narrow passages and rock formations.
'intrincada' modifies 'naturaleza' (nature), a feminine singular noun.
La trama de la novela era tan intrincada que me perdí varias veces al intentar seguirla.
The plot of the novel was so intricate that I got lost several times trying to follow it.
Here 'intrincada' modifies 'trama' (plot), agreeing in gender and number.
El diseño del laberinto era intrincado, con muchos pasadizos falsos y giros inesperados.
The design of the labyrinth was intricate, with many false passages and unexpected turns.
Again, 'intrincado' modifies 'diseño' (design).
Resolver este rompecabezas requiere una mente muy analítica, ya que sus mecanismos son intrincados.
Solving this puzzle requires a very analytical mind, as its mechanisms are intricate.
'Intrincados' modifies 'mecanismos' (mechanisms), plural and masculine.
La burocracia del gobierno es tan intrincada que a menudo desalienta a las personas a solicitar ayuda.
Government bureaucracy is so intricate that it often discourages people from seeking help.
'Intrincada' modifies 'burocracia' (bureaucracy), feminine and singular.
El sistema de metro de la ciudad es bastante intrincado para los recién llegados, con muchas líneas y conexiones.
The city's subway system is quite intricate for newcomers, with many lines and connections.
'Intrincado' modifies 'sistema' (system), masculine and singular.
La explicación del profesor fue tan intrincada que pocos estudiantes lograron captar el concepto por completo.
The professor's explanation was so intricate that few students managed to grasp the concept completely.
'Intrincada' modifies 'explicación' (explanation), feminine and singular.
El patrón del bordado era tan intrincado que la artista tardó meses en completarlo.
The embroidery pattern was so intricate that the artist took months to complete it.
'Intrincado' modifies 'patrón' (pattern), masculine and singular.
Navegar por las intrincadas calles del casco antiguo fue un desafío, pero valió la pena por las vistas.
Navigating the intricate streets of the old town was a challenge, but it was worth it for the sights.
'Intrincadas' modifies 'calles' (streets), plural and feminine.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
El reloj tiene un mecanismo intrincado.
The watch has an intricate mechanism. (The watch has a complex movement.)
Me gusta el diseño intrincado de la alfombra.
I like the intricate design of the rug. (I like the detailed pattern of the carpet.)
La historia tiene un argumento muy intrincado.
The story has a very intricate plot. (The story has a very complex storyline.)
Es un problema demasiado intrincado para resolverlo rápidamente.
It's too intricate a problem to solve quickly. (It's too complex a problem to resolve fast.)
El bordado del vestido era intrincado y hermoso.
The embroidery on the dress was intricate and beautiful. (The dress's stitching was detailed and lovely.)
Se perdió en el laberinto intrincado del jardín.
He got lost in the intricate labyrinth of the garden. (He got lost in the complex maze of the garden.)
La red de tuberías era muy intrincada.
The pipe network was very intricate. (The network of pipes was very complex.)
Explicó el sistema con detalles intrincados.
He explained the system with intricate details. (He explained the system with complex details.)
El patrón del tejido es realmente intrincado.
The fabric pattern is really intricate. (The weaving pattern is truly detailed.)
La estructura de la célula es intrincada.
The cell's structure is intricate. (The structure of the cell is complex.)
Often Confused With
Don't confuse 'intrincado' (intricate, complex) with 'intrínseco' (intrinsic, inherent). They sound similar but have very different meanings. 'Intrínseco' refers to something that is an essential part of something, while 'intrincado' describes its detailed or convoluted nature.
While 'intrincado' can be used as an adjective (meaning intricate), its noun form (often implicitly, in contexts where 'lo intrincado' is used) refers to the state of being intricate. The provided word was given as a noun in the prompt, so focus on its use when referring to the concept of intricacy itself, rather than describing something as intricate.
'Entramado' refers to a framework, a web, or a structure, which can sometimes be 'intrincado.' However, 'entramado' is the structure itself, while 'intrincado' describes a characteristic of that structure (its complexity or detail).
Grammar Patterns
Easily Confused
'Enmarañado' often gets mixed up with 'intrincado' because both can describe something tangled or messy. However, 'enmarañado' specifically refers to a physical state of being tangled, like hair or threads.
Use 'enmarañado' when something is literally tangled. 'Intrincado' is broader and can refer to abstract complexity.
El cabello de la muñeca estaba muy enmarañado después de que los niños jugaran con ella. (The doll's hair was very tangled after the children played with it.)
Many learners use 'complicado' interchangeably with 'intrincado.' While 'complicado' also means complex, it often implies difficulty or trouble.
'Intrincado' focuses on the detail and structure, often without a negative connotation. 'Complicado' often suggests a problem or a difficult situation.
La situación política se volvió muy complicada. (The political situation became very complicated.)
'Laberíntico' can seem similar to 'intrincado' because labyrinths are complex. However, 'laberíntico' specifically evokes the image of a maze.
While an 'intrincado' system might be like a maze, 'laberíntico' is more directly tied to the visual and structural characteristics of a labyrinth.
Las calles del casco antiguo eran laberínticas y era fácil perderse. (The streets of the old town were labyrinthine and it was easy to get lost.)
'Enrevesado' is frequently confused with 'intrincado' because both can describe something difficult to understand or complicated. However, 'enrevesado' often carries a connotation of being deliberately convoluted or obscure.
'Intrincado' can describe natural complexity. 'Enrevesado' often implies that something is made difficult on purpose, or unnecessarily so.
Su explicación fue tan enrevesada que nadie la entendió. (His explanation was so convoluted that no one understood it.)
'Complejo' is a direct translation of 'complex' in English and is very close in meaning to 'intrincado.' The confusion arises when to choose one over the other.
'Intrincado' emphasizes the detailed and elaborate nature. 'Complejo' is a more general term for something having many parts or aspects.
El diseño del motor era muy complejo. (The engine design was very complex.)
Sentence Patterns
Este diseño es muy intrincado.
This design is very intricate.
La trama de la novela es intrincada.
The plot of the novel is complex.
Resolvimos el problema intrincado.
We solved the intricate problem.
Sus explicaciones eran un poco intrincadas.
His explanations were a bit convoluted.
Creó un patrón intrincado en la tela.
He created an intricate pattern on the fabric.
La burocracia puede ser intrincada.
Bureaucracy can be intricate.
Es un sistema intrincado de reglas.
It's an intricate system of rules.
La investigación reveló detalles intrincados.
The investigation revealed intricate details.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
How to Use It
Intrincado is used to describe something that has many interconnected parts, making it difficult to understand, solve, or untangle. It often implies a certain level of complexity that can be challenging.
Examples:
- El diseño del reloj es muy intrincado. (The design of the clock is very intricate.)
- Resolvió el problema intrincado con paciencia. (He solved the intricate problem with patience.)
- La trama de la novela era intrincada y llena de giros. (The plot of the novel was intricate and full of twists.)
A common mistake is confusing 'intrincado' with 'difícil' (difficult) or 'complicado' (complicated) when the nuance of interconnected parts is not present. While something intrincado is often difficult or complicated, not everything difficult or complicated is intrincado. 'Intrincado' specifically highlights the detailed and interwoven nature.
For example, you wouldn't typically say 'Este ejercicio de matemáticas es intrincado' if it's just hard. You'd say 'Este ejercicio es difícil'. However, if the exercise involves many steps that are all connected and affect each other, then 'intrincado' could be appropriate.
Tips
Think 'Intricate'
When you hear or read 'intrincado,' immediately think of the English word intricate. They sound and mean very similar things, which makes it an easy one to remember.
Visualize Complexity
To solidify 'intrincado' in your mind, picture something that is truly complex or very detailed. For example, a labyrinth, a complicated machine, or a complex plot in a story.
Adjective Use
'Intrincado' is an adjective. Remember that adjectives in Spanish typically follow the noun. So, you'll say 'un problema intrincado' (an intricate problem) instead of 'un intrincado problema'.
Practice with Examples
Read these examples aloud to get used to using 'intrincado':
- El diseño de este reloj es intrincado. (The design of this watch is intricate.)
- Era una historia con una trama intrincada. (It was a story with an intricate plot.)
- Resolver este rompecabezas es muy intrincado. (Solving this puzzle is very complex.)
Don't Confuse with 'Interesante'
Be careful not to confuse 'intrincado' with 'interesante' (interesting). While something intricate can be interesting, the meanings are different. Focus on the 'c' sound for complexity.
Synonyms for Understanding
Think of English synonyms like complex, convoluted, elaborate, or tangled. These can help you grasp the full range of meaning for 'intrincado'.
Opposites Help
Consider the opposite: 'simple' or 'sencillo' (simple, easy). This contrast can help reinforce the meaning of 'intrincado' as something difficult or complicated.
Related Verb
The verb 'intrincar' exists, meaning 'to make intricate or complex'. While less common in everyday conversation, knowing it can deepen your understanding of the adjective. Think of to complicate.
Use it in a Sentence
The best way to learn new vocabulary is to use it. Try to create your own sentence using 'intrincado' today. For example, 'Mi nuevo proyecto es bastante intrincado.' (My new project is quite complex.)
Test Yourself 96 questions
Listen to a common Spanish greeting.
Listen to another way to say 'How are you?'
Listen to a common Spanish farewell.
Read this aloud:
Buenos días.
Focus: Buenos días
You said:
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Read this aloud:
Buenas tardes.
Focus: Buenas tardes
You said:
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Read this aloud:
Buenas noches.
Focus: Buenas noches
You said:
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Write a short sentence describing something simple, like 'The cat is small.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
El gato es pequeño.
Write a sentence introducing yourself, such as 'My name is [your name].'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Me llamo Juan.
Write a sentence describing what you like to eat, for example, 'I like pizza.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Me gusta la pizza.
¿De dónde es Ana?
Read this passage:
Hola. Me llamo Ana. Soy de España. Tengo un perro. El perro es grande.
¿De dónde es Ana?
The passage says 'Soy de España.'
The passage says 'Soy de España.'
¿De qué color es la casa?
Read this passage:
Mi casa es azul. Tiene dos ventanas. El jardín es verde. Me gusta mi casa.
¿De qué color es la casa?
The passage says 'Mi casa es azul.'
The passage says 'Mi casa es azul.'
¿Qué tiene la persona?
Read this passage:
Tengo una manzana. Es roja. Es deliciosa. Quiero comerla ahora.
¿Qué tiene la persona?
The passage says 'Tengo una manzana.'
The passage says 'Tengo una manzana.'
El mapa del tesoro era muy ___.
The treasure map was very intricate. 'Intrincado' means complex or detailed.
La historia que contó era un poco ___ para entender.
The story he told was a bit intricate (complex) to understand. 'Intrincada' is the feminine form of the adjective.
El diseño de este reloj es muy ___.
The design of this watch is very intricate. 'Intrincado' describes something with many small, detailed parts.
Resolver este problema es un poco ___.
Solving this problem is a bit intricate (complex). 'Intrincado' suggests difficulty due to complexity.
Construir este modelo fue un trabajo ___.
Building this model was an intricate (detailed) job. 'Intrincado' implies many details or steps.
Los detalles de la pintura eran muy ___.
The details of the painting were very intricate. 'Intrincados' is the plural form of the adjective.
The boy likes to play with his ______ car.
At A2 level, 'intrincado' (intricate) is too complex for a simple car. 'Pequeño' (small) fits the context better for a boy's car.
My cat enjoys sleeping in the ______ box.
At A2, a cat would prefer a 'cómoda' (comfortable) box, not an 'intrincado' (intricate) one.
The student thought the math problem was very ______.
At A2, 'difícil' (difficult) is the more common and appropriate word for a math problem. 'Intrincado' (intricate) implies a level of detail not typically used at this level for a simple problem.
A simple drawing can be described as 'intrincado'.
'Intrincado' means intricate or complex, so a simple drawing would not be described with this word.
A very easy game is often 'intrincado'.
'Intrincado' means intricate or complex. An easy game is the opposite of intricate.
A book with few words and big pictures could be 'intrincado'.
A book with few words and big pictures is typically simple, not 'intrincado' (intricate or complex).
The house is big.
The dog eats fast.
She sings well.
Read this aloud:
Hola, ¿cómo estás?
Focus: Hola
You said:
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Read this aloud:
Yo tengo un gato.
Focus: tengo
You said:
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Read this aloud:
Me gusta leer libros.
Focus: libros
You said:
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Describe a simple everyday object using three Spanish adjectives. For example, 'The table is brown, big, and old.' (La mesa es marrón, grande y vieja.)
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
El libro es rojo, interesante y nuevo. (The book is red, interesting, and new.)
Write two sentences about your daily routine. Use verbs like 'to eat' (comer) and 'to drink' (beber).
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Por la mañana, yo como pan. Por la tarde, yo bebo agua. (In the morning, I eat bread. In the afternoon, I drink water.)
Imagine you are at a restaurant. Write a simple sentence ordering a drink or food item.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Quiero un café, por favor. (I want a coffee, please.)
¿Dónde vive Ana?
Read this passage:
Hola, me llamo Ana. Vivo en Madrid. Me gusta leer libros y escuchar música. Tengo un perro pequeño. Se llama Max.
¿Dónde vive Ana?
The passage states: 'Vivo en Madrid.' (I live in Madrid.)
The passage states: 'Vivo en Madrid.' (I live in Madrid.)
¿Qué le gusta hacer a Juan?
Read this passage:
Mi hermano Juan tiene veinte años. Él estudia en la universidad. Le gusta jugar al fútbol con sus amigos.
¿Qué le gusta hacer a Juan?
The passage says: 'Le gusta jugar al fútbol con sus amigos.' (He likes to play soccer with his friends.)
The passage says: 'Le gusta jugar al fútbol con sus amigos.' (He likes to play soccer with his friends.)
¿Qué día es hoy?
Read this passage:
Hoy es sábado. Voy al mercado para comprar frutas y verduras. Después, voy a visitar a mis abuelos.
¿Qué día es hoy?
The passage starts with: 'Hoy es sábado.' (Today is Saturday.)
The passage starts with: 'Hoy es sábado.' (Today is Saturday.)
This sentence means 'The road is very long.' It's a simple declarative sentence.
This sentence means 'She has a big dog.' We put 'ella' (she) first, then 'tiene' (has), then the object 'un perro grande' (a big dog).
This sentence means 'We eat fresh fruits.' Start with the subject 'nosotros' (we), then the verb 'comemos' (eat), and finally the object 'frutas frescas' (fresh fruits).
El mapa del tesoro era tan ___ que nos costó mucho descifrarlo. (The treasure map was so ___ that it was hard for us to decipher.)
The context implies difficulty in deciphering the map, so 'intrincado' (intricate/complex) is the best fit. 'Fácil' (easy), 'simple' (simple), and 'claro' (clear) suggest the opposite.
La trama de la película era bastante ___, con muchos giros inesperados. (The movie's plot was quite ___, with many unexpected twists.)
A plot with 'many unexpected twists' is best described as 'intrincada' (intricate/complex). 'Aburrida' (boring), 'predecible' (predictable), and 'sencilla' (simple) do not fit the description.
El diseño de ese reloj es muy ___, tiene muchas piezas pequeñas y detalladas. (The design of that clock is very ___, it has many small, detailed pieces.)
Having 'muchas piezas pequeñas y detalladas' (many small, detailed pieces) indicates an 'intrincado' (intricate/complex) design. 'Grande' (big), 'simple' (simple), and 'rápido' (fast) are not appropriate descriptions.
Resolver este problema de matemáticas es un poco ___, requiere mucha atención. (Solving this math problem is a bit ___, it requires a lot of attention.)
A problem that 'requiere mucha atención' (requires a lot of attention) is likely 'intrincado' (intricate/complex). 'Fácil' (easy), 'básico' (basic), and 'corto' (short) do not suggest difficulty.
La red de carreteras en la ciudad antigua es bastante ___, es fácil perderse. (The road network in the old city is quite ___, it's easy to get lost.)
If 'es fácil perderse' (it's easy to get lost), the road network is likely 'intrincada' (intricate/convoluted). 'Ordenada' (ordered), 'clara' (clear), and 'moderna' (modern) would imply the opposite.
Su explicación sobre el tema era tan ___ que no la entendí bien. (His explanation of the topic was so ___ that I didn't understand it well.)
If 'no la entendí bien' (I didn't understand it well), the explanation was likely 'intrincada' (complex/convoluted). 'Sencilla' (simple), 'clara' (clear), and 'breve' (brief) would suggest better understanding.
This sentence describes a situation where a 'complex path' led to getting lost. 'Intrincado' (intricate) modifies 'camino' (path).
Here, 'intrincada' (intricate) describes a 'complex plot' ('trama'). The sentence structure places the adjective after the noun it modifies.
This sentence uses 'intrincado' (intricate) to describe the difficulty of 'solving a problem'. The comparative 'más' (more) is used correctly.
This sentence means 'The geometry was very intricate.'
This sentence means 'The intricate problem was difficult to solve.'
This sentence means 'The details of the map were intricate.'
Choose the best synonym for "intrincado" in the following sentence: "La trama de la película era tan intrincada que me perdí." (The plot of the movie was so intricate that I got lost.)
"Complicada" (complicated) is the best synonym for "intrincada" as it conveys the idea of something being difficult to understand or follow due to its complexity.
Which of these objects would most likely be described as "intrincado"?
An "ecuación matemática compleja" (complex mathematical equation) fits the definition of "intrincado" due to its involved nature and potential difficulty to solve. A disassembled Rubik's cube is complicated, but the other options are simple.
Select the sentence where "intrincado" is used correctly:
"Intrincado" is used correctly to describe a path that is difficult to navigate due to its complexity or turns. The other options don't make sense with the meaning of the word.
A simple drawing with few lines can be described as "intrincado."
False. "Intrincado" implies complexity and many details, so a simple drawing would not fit this description.
If a problem is described as "intrincado," it means it's easy to solve.
False. "Intrincado" means complex or complicated, which suggests it would be difficult, not easy, to solve.
The design of a very elaborate and detailed ancient tapestry could be called "intrincado."
True. An elaborate and detailed design perfectly aligns with the meaning of "intrincado."
The plot of the movie.
The design of the labyrinth.
A complex problem.
Read this aloud:
Describe un mecanismo intrincado.
Focus: in-trin-CA-do
You said:
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Read this aloud:
¿Qué significa que algo sea intrincado?
Focus: in-trin-CA-do
You said:
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Read this aloud:
Usa 'intrincado' en una oración sobre arquitectura.
Focus: in-trin-CA-do
You said:
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This sentence describes the intricate design of a watch.
This sentence refers to a novel with a plot that was too intricate to follow.
This sentence indicates solving a complex math problem.
Choose the best synonym for 'intrincado'.
The word 'intrincado' means intricate or complex, making 'complicado' the closest synonym.
Which sentence uses 'intrincado' correctly?
'Intrincado' implies complexity and difficulty, which aligns with a winding, confusing path.
If something is 'intrincado', it is likely difficult to...
An 'intrincado' concept, problem, or design is complex and detailed, making it hard to comprehend.
A simple drawing can be described as 'intrincado'.
'Intrincado' describes something complex and highly detailed, not simple.
Solving an 'intrincado' puzzle would likely take a lot of time and effort.
Because 'intrincado' means complex and difficult, solving an intrincado puzzle would indeed require significant time and effort.
The plot of a children's story is usually 'intrincado'.
Children's stories typically have simple and straightforward plots, the opposite of 'intrincado'.
The plot of the movie was so intricate that I found it hard to follow.
The intricate design of the embroidery is a work of art.
Solving this problem requires an intricate analysis of all factors.
Read this aloud:
El mecanismo del reloj antiguo es intrincado.
Focus: in-trin-CA-do
You said:
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Read this aloud:
Su explicación fue tan intrincada que no entendí nada.
Focus: ex-pli-ca-CION
You said:
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Read this aloud:
La arquitectura gótica a menudo presenta detalles intrincados.
Focus: ar-qui-tec-TU-ra
You said:
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This sentence describes the complex layout of an ancient city, highlighting the intricate nature of its design.
This sentence emphasizes the need to untangle a complex web of causes and effects to solve a problem.
This sentence describes a novel with a plot so intricate it demands multiple readings for full comprehension.
/ 96 correct
Perfect score!
Think 'Intricate'
When you hear or read 'intrincado,' immediately think of the English word intricate. They sound and mean very similar things, which makes it an easy one to remember.
Visualize Complexity
To solidify 'intrincado' in your mind, picture something that is truly complex or very detailed. For example, a labyrinth, a complicated machine, or a complex plot in a story.
Adjective Use
'Intrincado' is an adjective. Remember that adjectives in Spanish typically follow the noun. So, you'll say 'un problema intrincado' (an intricate problem) instead of 'un intrincado problema'.
Practice with Examples
Read these examples aloud to get used to using 'intrincado':
- El diseño de este reloj es intrincado. (The design of this watch is intricate.)
- Era una historia con una trama intrincada. (It was a story with an intricate plot.)
- Resolver este rompecabezas es muy intrincado. (Solving this puzzle is very complex.)
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
More general words
a causa de
A2For the reason of; owing to.
a condición de que
B2On condition that, provided that, or given that.
a dónde
A1To what place or destination?
a lo mejor
A2Maybe; perhaps.
a menos que
B1Unless.
a no ser que
B2Unless; should it not be that.
a pesar de
B1In spite of; despite.
a_pesar_de
B2In spite of; notwithstanding; despite.
a propósito
B2By the way, on purpose; incidentally; or intentionally.
a raíz de
B2As a result of; following directly from.
