Byzantine Meaning in English
word
Definition
Originally relating to the Byzantine Empire, this word more commonly describes something extremely complicated, complex, or full of confusing details, often in systems or rules.
Usage & Nuances
Common in formal and academic English; often used negatively to criticize overly complicated bureaucracy, procedures, or systems. Not usually used in everyday conversation about people. Compare with 'complex' or 'convoluted' but stronger and often with a negative tone.
Example Sentences
The new law is written in byzantine language.
basic
His explanation was so byzantine that no one understood.
basic
The company's byzantine rules confuse employees.
basic
Their tax system is just so byzantine—I needed an accountant to make sense of it.
natural
Honestly, I can't keep track of their byzantine procedures anymore.
natural
Our office politics can get pretty byzantine at times.
natural