17 Other Ways to Say ELABORATE | Synonyms for Elaborate (Examples)

When you want to describe something as detailed, complex, or carefully explained, the word “elaborate” often fits perfectly. However, there are many other ways to express the same idea, such as intricate, ornate, or comprehensive. Using different words can make your writing more interesting and clear. In this article, we will explore 17 great synonyms for “elaborate” with examples.

17 Different Ways to Say ELABORATE: Another Word for Elaborate

Detailed

The word “detailed” works perfectly when you want to show that something has many small parts or is fully explained. It is commonly used for descriptions, plans, or reports where precision matters. Using “detailed” signals that nothing is left out and that you paid attention to every part. This synonym is very friendly for everyday conversations and writing. People often appreciate detailed information because it helps them understand things better. It is simple but powerful when you need clarity.

• The teacher gave a detailed explanation of the math problem.
• She wrote a detailed report about the new project.
• I need a detailed plan before we start the trip.

Intricate

“Intricate” is perfect when you want to show that something is complicated but carefully designed. It is often used for art, machines, or patterns that require attention to understand. The word conveys that there is complexity and skill involved, just like “elaborate” does. Using “intricate” adds a sense of admiration for how something is put together. It makes your description sound thoughtful and precise. You can use it in writing or speaking to highlight skill and complexity.

• The necklace had an intricate design that amazed everyone.
• He solved the intricate puzzle in just ten minutes.
• The story has an intricate plot that keeps readers hooked.

Complex

“Complex” is a great synonym for “elaborate” when you want to show that something has many connected parts. It works for ideas, systems, or problems. Using “complex” signals that understanding or explaining it may take effort. This word is often used in science, technology, or detailed instructions. It helps readers or listeners prepare for more information. Complex ideas need careful thought, just like elaborate explanations. It shows depth and sophistication.

• The instructions were complex but easy to follow.
• Understanding the complex system took a few hours.
• She explained a complex theory in a simple way.

Ornate

“Ornate” is perfect for describing something that is decorated in a very fancy way. It works well for art, buildings, or writing styles that have many details. Using “ornate” adds a sense of beauty and effort. People use it when they want to show elegance and style. The word gives a visual image of richness and careful work. It is less common in casual speech but very strong in writing or storytelling. It emphasizes decoration and sophistication.

• The hall had ornate chandeliers and gold decorations.
• He wrote an ornate poem full of beautiful words.
• The furniture in the palace was very ornate and elegant.

Exquisite

“Exquisite” works when you want to describe something that is very fine, delicate, or perfect. It is often used for art, food, or experiences. Using this synonym gives a sense of admiration and quality. It relates to “elaborate” because it shows that attention and care were put into something. Exquisite details make something special and memorable. People often associate it with beauty and perfection. It is a positive and flattering word.

• The artist created an exquisite painting with tiny details.
• She wore an exquisite dress for the party.
• The cake was exquisite, both in taste and decoration.

Sophisticated

“Sophisticated” is ideal when something is advanced, clever, or polished. It is often used for technology, ideas, or style. Using “sophisticated” shows that something is carefully thought out and developed. This word makes your description feel smart and impressive. It is similar to “elaborate” because it implies refinement and complexity. You can use it to describe anything that has a high level of quality or intelligence. It is a versatile and strong word.

• The software has a sophisticated design for beginners.
• She has a sophisticated taste in fashion.
• The plan was sophisticated and very well organized.

Comprehensive

“Comprehensive” is perfect when something covers everything completely. It is used for reports, studies, or explanations. Using “comprehensive” signals that nothing important is left out. People like comprehensive information because it saves them time and effort. It is similar to “elaborate” in that it provides full coverage. This word makes your writing or speech feel thorough and reliable. It is useful in both casual and formal contexts.

• The book gives a comprehensive guide to cooking.
• He offered a comprehensive explanation of the rules.
• We made a comprehensive list of all the tasks.

Expansive

“Expansive” works when you want to describe something that is wide-ranging or very thorough. It can be used for writing, speeches, or ideas. Using “expansive” shows that a lot of ground is covered. It relates to “elaborate” because it gives a sense of depth and breadth. This word adds a friendly tone and makes your description feel big and inclusive. It is perfect for storytelling or teaching.

• She gave an expansive explanation about history.
• The movie had an expansive plot with many characters.
• His speech was expansive and covered many topics.

Thorough

“Thorough” is ideal when you want to show that something is complete and done carefully. It is often used for work, research, or cleaning. Using “thorough” signals that nothing is missed. It is similar to “elaborate” because it shows attention to every detail. People appreciate thorough work because it saves time and avoids mistakes. This word is simple and effective for everyday conversations. It gives confidence in the quality of something.

• He did a thorough check of all the equipment.
• The teacher gave a thorough explanation of the lesson.
• She made a thorough review before the exam.

Developed

“Developed” works well when something is fully formed or carefully worked out. It is used for ideas, plans, or skills. Using “developed” shows growth and effort over time. It relates to “elaborate” because it signals completeness and refinement. This word gives a sense of progress and readiness. People use it when something is not just simple but fully prepared. It is friendly and easy to understand.

• The team has a developed strategy for marketing.
• She shared a developed idea for the project.
• The city has a developed transport system.

Refined

“Refined” is perfect for showing improvement, elegance, or careful polishing. It is often used for style, ideas, or products. Using “refined” relates to “elaborate” because it shows attention to quality. This word makes something feel classy and sophisticated. People use it to describe things that are smooth, polished, or well thought out. It adds a gentle admiration to your description.

• The chef made a refined version of the classic dish.
• Her writing is refined and easy to read.
• He has a refined taste in music.

Fussy

“Fussy” is useful when something has too many details or is overcomplicated. It can describe work, designs, or people. Using “fussy” relates to “elaborate” because it shows lots of effort and care, sometimes to an extreme. This word is casual and adds a playful tone. People understand it as attention to detail, but with a hint of being picky. It works in friendly conversation.

• The cake was fussy, with many tiny decorations.
• She is fussy about how the room is arranged.
• He made a fussy plan that took hours to prepare.

Labored

“Labored” works when something is done with a lot of effort, sometimes slow or careful. It relates to “elaborate” because it shows detailed effort. Using “labored” is casual and honest, showing the work put in. It can describe writing, explanations, or tasks. People use it to show dedication or struggle. This word gives a sense of time and effort.

• He gave a labored explanation that took time to follow.
• The painting looked labored but impressive.
• She made a labored attempt to solve the problem.

Embellished

“Embellished” is perfect when details or decorations are added to make something more interesting or beautiful. It relates to “elaborate” because it shows extra effort. Using “embellished” works for stories, clothes, or objects. It adds flair and style to your description. People enjoy embellished details because they make things stand out. This word is friendly and vivid in writing.

• The story was embellished with funny details.
• She wore an embellished dress to the event.
• The room was embellished with lights and flowers.

Extended

“Extended” is ideal when something is made longer or more detailed. It relates to “elaborate” because it adds information or depth. Using “extended” works for speeches, writing, or plans. It shows effort to give more than the basic. People use it when they want completeness. This word is casual and clear, easy for everyday conversation.

• The lecture was extended to cover extra topics.
• She wrote an extended report with more examples.
• We took an extended tour of the museum.

Explanatory

“Explanatory” works when something helps to explain or clarify. It is very close to “elaborate” because it provides more information. Using “explanatory” is helpful for writing, teaching, or guides. It makes things easier to understand. People appreciate explanatory details because they reduce confusion. This word is simple and friendly, useful for clear communication.

• The teacher gave an explanatory note about the homework.
• The guidebook was explanatory and easy to follow.
• She added an explanatory paragraph to the report.

Amplified

“Amplified” is perfect when something is made bigger, fuller, or more detailed. It relates to “elaborate” because it increases the content or effect. Using “amplified” works for writing, sounds, or ideas. It shows effort to make something stand out. People enjoy amplified details because they feel richer and complete. This word adds energy and emphasis to your description.

• The singer amplified the emotion in the song.
• He amplified his explanation with more examples.
• The story was amplified with colorful details.

Table of Synonyms for Elaborate

Final Thoughts

I hope this list of synonyms for “elaborate” helps you make your writing and speech more colorful and precise. Using words like detailed, intricate, or sophisticated can make your descriptions stand out. Each synonym has a unique flavor, so pick one that fits your tone and audience. Experimenting with these alternatives will make communication easier, friendlier, and more engaging for everyone.