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convolute

Convolute (verb) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

verb

IPA:

/ˈkɒnvəluːt/

What does convolute mean?

To make something complex, intricate, or overly complicated by adding unnecessary details, layers, or twists.
"The author likes to convolute his plots with unexpected twists and turns."

Detailed Meaning of Convolute

When you convolute a concept, story, or explanation, you essentially make it more difficult to understand or follow by introducing elements that may not contribute to clarity or coherence. This term is often used in contexts where simplicity and straightforwardness are preferred, and convoluting a subject can hinder effective communication or problem-solving. It implies that information or ideas have been needlessly entangled or convoluted, making them harder to grasp or navigate. In essence, to convolute is to overcomplicate, adding unnecessary complexity to a matter, which can hinder comprehension or practical application.

Example Sentences for Convolute

1. The instructions for the new software convolute the process unnecessarily.
2. If you convolute your explanation, the children won't understand the story.
3. As he spoke, it was evident that he was trying to convolute his answer to evade the question.
4. The author's attempts to be creative only served to convolute the plot.
5. When the lawyer began to convolute his statements, the jury seemed confused.
6. To keep the game interesting, the designer decided to convolute some of the puzzles.

Origin and Etymology of Convolute

The verb 'convolute' has its origins in Latin, specifically from the word 'convolutus,' which is the past participle of 'convolvere.' 'Con' in Latin means 'together,' and 'volvere' means 'to roll' or 'to turn.' Therefore, the etymology of 'convolute' essentially conveys the idea of rolling or twisting things together. Over time, it evolved to describe the act of making something complex, intricate, or overly complicated by adding unnecessary details, layers, or twists. When we explore the etymology of 'convolute,' we uncover its essence as a term that implies the winding and entwining of elements, resulting in a confusing or convoluted state. This word reflects the concept of unnecessary complexity and intricacy, emphasizing the twisting or rolling together of ideas or elements to the point of confusion.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the verb convolute:

clarify

simplify

straighten

complicate

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Convolute

1. The vines began to convolute around the old tree trunk.
2. Please, don't convolute the issue with irrelevant details.
3. He used a graphical representation to make sure he didn't convolute the presentation.
4. It’s essential not to convolute your essay with unnecessary jargon.
5. The politicians often convolute their speeches to sound more knowledgeable.
6. The mathematician managed to convolute the problem so much that no one could solve it.
7. During the debate, he attempted to convolute his opponent's arguments.
8. I thought the assembly would be simple, but the manual managed to convolute it.
9. The ribbon began to convolute around the spool as it was wound up.
10. When the teacher saw the students grasp the concept easily, she decided not to convolute it any further.
11. The science fiction story began to convolute when time travel was introduced.
12. The plot of the movie began to convolute, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats.
13. The addition of too many characters began to convolute the narrative.
14. The magician managed to convolute his tricks so well that no one could figure them out.