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multifaceted

multifaceted

15 5.9
Having many different parts or sides
  • adjective
  • /ˌmʌl.tɪˈfæs.ɪ.tɪd/
translation icon : multifacético
  • The state will be shown to be a multifaceted actor with diverse interests.
  • multifaceted approach
  • multifaceted nature
  • multifaceted program

The demon said nothing, her slate grey multifaceted eye glimmering in the Starlight.

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Examples

  • The origins of ecosystem degradation are many and subtle, and multifaceted approaches are needed.

    Academic text (1993)
  • Portfolios are particularly valuable when demonstrating the multifaceted talents required of a music educator.

    Academic text (2008)
  • There are many benefits to having a multifaceted understanding of a concept.

    Academic text (2017)
  • The complex child population we targeted in our training program requires multifaceted treatment components.

    Academic text (1991)
  • And so they seek a jingoistic, politically popular solution to a complex and multifaceted problem.

    Academic text (2008)
  • The role of a music educator is multifaceted, with every facet carrying a weight of high importance.

    Academic text (1993)
  • The "selves" they narrate are multifaceted entities that shift their perspectives over time.

    Academic text (2017)
  • School restructuring and reform continue to call for multifaceted approaches addressing issues concerning today's education.

    Academic text (1992)
  • "You come with us," Grappa insisted, his multifaceted eyes sparkling eagerly.

    Fiction book (2000)
  • A successful artist often possesses a multifaceted skill set that includes painting, sculpture, and digital media.

Synonyms

varied
vsmultifaceted
54 3.3

Containing many different kinds, not all the same

is more about having multiple distinct aspects than simple variety
all-around
vsmultifaceted
  • US
29 4.4

A person who can do many different things well

applies to many aspects generally, not only skills or abilities
multidimensional
vsmultifaceted
9 6.6

Having many different parts or sides that make it complex

focuses on many aspects without implying distinct dimensions
manifold
vsmultifaceted
  • Formal
7 7.0

Having many different parts

is a neutral descriptive term highlighting multiple aspects
multilayered
vsmultifaceted
4 4.8

Something that has several parts on different levels

covers many aspects generally without stressing layered structure
multifarious
vsmultifaceted
  • Formal
1 9.2

Having many different kinds or parts

is broader and less about distinct kinds than variety
multipronged
vsmultifaceted
1 6.0

Using several different ways at the same time

refers to many aspects but not specifically to multiple approaches
multifold
vsmultifaceted
1 5.5

Having many different parts or aspects

focuses on overall variety rather than counting distinct parts
diversified
vsmultifaceted
1 4.7

Having many different kinds of things

describes inherent many-aspect quality rather than an added change
many-faceted
vsmultifaceted
1 5.8

Having many different parts or qualities

is the common single-word term used for the same idea
multiplex
vsmultifaceted
  • Specialized
1 6.5

Having many parts or features and not simple

stresses simply having many aspects without implying interaction
many-sided
vsmultifaceted
1 4.1

Having many different parts or qualities

is the general label for having several aspects rather than sides
multihued
vsmultifaceted
1 5.9

Having many different colors

means many aspects broadly, not primarily about color
multiform
vsmultifaceted
6.8

Having many different forms or shapes

describes many aspects more generally, not just physical forms
multivalent
vsmultifaceted
9.2

Having many possible meanings for different people

denotes many aspects but not necessarily multiple interpretations
multi-valued
vsmultifaceted
6.8

Able to have more than one value or meaning

focuses on varied aspects rather than multiple distinct values

How Complex

multifaceted
15 5.9
complex
648 5.6
simple
1.0

Surface Forms

multifaceted positive

Morphology

multifaceted = faceted (semi-transparent) = multi + facet + ed

The addition of multi- is clear, but the base faceted already uses a specialized metaphorical sense of facet.

Etymology

The word multifaceted comes from multi- meaning 'many' and facet meaning a small 'face' or side, like the flat faces on a cut gem. So something multifaceted has many different 'faces' or parts, which is why we use it for people, problems, or things with many aspects.