What is complexion? Pronunciation and usage in English

complexion means . Learn how to pronounce and use complexion through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of complexion

complexionnoun

/kəmˈplekʃn//kəmˈplekʃn/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "complexion." It's a tricky word! Here's a breakdown with phonetic guide and tips:

Phonetic Transcription (IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet):

/ˈkɒmplɪks.ən/

Let's break it down syllable by syllable:

  • com-plex: /ˈkɒmplɪks/
    • com: Sounds like "come" – /kɒm/
    • plex: Sounds like "plex" (like the software company) - /plɪks/ (The "i" is subtly short)
  • -i-: /ɪ/ (A very short, quick "i" sound, like in "bit")
  • -on: /ən/ (This is a very subtle "un" sound. Think of it like a very quick "uh" followed by "n")

Putting it together, and a more conversational guide:

  1. "Com-plex": Focus on the "pl" sound - it's almost like "plex," not "compl."
  2. "I": Say a very brief “i” sound like in “bit”.
  3. "On": This is the trickiest part. It's not a full “on” as in “gone.” It's a very short, almost swallowed “uh” sound followed immediately by an “n.” Think of it almost as "uh-n."

Tips and Common Mistakes:

  • Don't overemphasize the first syllable. It’s a balanced pronunciation.
  • Don't add an extra "e" sound at the end. It shouldn't sound like "complex-ion" with a long "e".
  • The "on" is key. This is where most people stumble. Practice just saying “uh-n” quickly.

Resources to Listen:

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  • Are you a native English speaker, or are you learning?
  • What specifically are you finding difficult about the pronunciation? (e.g., the "on" sound, the first syllable, etc.)

Usage and examples with the word complexion in English

Let's break down how to use the word "complexion" in English. It's a bit of a tricky word because it has a specific meaning beyond just "skin." Here's a comprehensive guide:

1. Primary Meaning: Skin Appearance

This is the most common usage. "Complexion" refers to the overall appearance of someone's skin – its color, texture, and tone.

  • Example: "She had a delicate, rosy complexion." (Meaning: her skin was pale, with a pinkish hue.)
  • Example: "He tanned easily, developing a bronzy complexion during the summer."
  • Example: "The medication caused her complexion to become blotchy and inflamed."

2. More Formal & Literary Usage – Character or Personality

Historically, and still present in more formal or literary writing, "complexion" can also describe a person's character, mood, or demeanor. It suggests a mixture of qualities, often not entirely pleasant. Think of it as a psychological state reflected outwardly.

  • Example: “He presented a gloomy complexion, refusing to acknowledge the good news.” (Meaning: he looked and acted unhappy and sullen.)
  • Example: "The politician's complexion was one of suspicion and distrust." (Meaning: he gave off an impression of being guarded and unwilling to believe.)
  • Example: "Her complexion shifted from cheerful to anxious in a matter of moments.” (Meaning: her emotional state visibly changed.)

3. Less Common - Appearance of a Surface/Object

Rarely, "complexion" can describe the surface appearance of something other than a person's skin – often something textured or layered.

  • Example: "The aged parchment had a rough complexion." (Meaning: the surface of the parchment was uneven and textured.)

Key Considerations & Nuances:

  • Formal Tone: "Complexion" is generally considered a more formal word than simply saying “skin.” It’s often found in literature, historical texts, and sometimes in news reporting.
  • Specificity: When describing skin, you’ll often want to be more specific than just "complexion." Use adjectives to paint a clearer picture: pale, fair, dark, ruddy, sallow, clear, oily, dry, freckled, etc.
  • Context is Crucial: Pay attention to the context of the sentence to understand whether “complexion” refers to skin or character.

Synonyms (depending on the meaning):

  • For Skin: skin tone, hue, shade, appearance, look, appearance, state of skin.
  • For Character/Mood: demeanor, attitude, mood, expression, appearance, bearing, state of mind.

Resources for Further Exploration:

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  • What are you trying to write or say? (e.g., describing a character in a story, writing a description of someone’s appearance, etc.)

Synonyms for the word complexion

Idioms of the word complexion

put a new/different complexion on something
to change the way that a situation appears
  • What you have told us puts a different complexion on the situation.
  • The joke took on a rather serious complexion when the police became involved.

Practice with vocabulary complexion

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. After spending a week hiking in the mountains, her ________ had a healthy, sun-kissed glow.
  2. For a consistent and even ________, it's recommended to use sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days.
  3. Many factors, including genetics and diet, contribute to an individual's unique ________.
  4. His calm and collected ________ during the crisis reassured everyone in the room.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (There may be multiple correct answers per question)

  1. Which of the following factors can significantly impact a person's skin's outward appearance and health? a) Diet b) Stress levels c) Genetics d) Hydration

  2. Which words could be used to describe someone's skin condition or outward appearance? a) Radiant b) Dull c) Even d) Mood

  3. What common cosmetic products are primarily designed to enhance or modify the skin's surface? a) Foundation b) Moisturizer c) Concealer d) Toothpaste

  4. When discussing skincare routines, which terms are crucial for identifying individual skin characteristics? a) Skin type b) Texture c) Elasticity d) Political views

  5. What aspects contribute to a person's overall first impression during a professional meeting? a) Eye contact b) Posture c) Attire d) Hair color

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: Her skin always looked healthy and had a lovely glow, even without makeup. Rewrite: (Start with "She always had...")

  2. Original: After a refreshing facial, the appearance of her skin became much clearer and more vibrant. Rewrite: (Start with "After a refreshing facial, her...")

  3. Original: The general atmosphere of the meeting quickly became tense as the difficult topic was introduced. Rewrite: (Start with "The...")

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. complexion
  2. complexion
  3. skin tone
  4. demeanor

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. a) Diet, b) Stress levels, c) Genetics, d) Hydration
  2. a) Radiant, b) Dull, c) Even
  3. a) Foundation, b) Moisturizer, c) Concealer
  4. a) Skin type, b) Texture, c) Elasticity
  5. a) Eye contact, b) Posture, c) Attire, d) Hair color

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. She always had a healthy and lovely complexion, even without makeup.
  2. After a refreshing facial, her complexion became much clearer and more vibrant.
  3. The tone of the meeting quickly became tense as the difficult topic was introduced.

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