complice: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Obsolete/RareArchaic/Literary
Quick answer
What does “complice” mean?
A person who helps another to commit a crime or wrongdoing.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A person who helps another to commit a crime or wrongdoing; an accomplice.
An archaic or rare term for a partner or associate in a secret, illicit, or dubious enterprise.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No contemporary regional difference. The word is equally obsolete in both dialects.
Connotations
Historical, Shakespearean, archaic. May be used for stylistic effect.
Frequency
Extremely rare in modern usage; found primarily in historical texts (e.g., Shakespeare).
Grammar
How to Use “complice” in a Sentence
complice in/of + [noun phrase] (e.g., complice in the crime)Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used in modern business contexts.
Academic
Used only in historical or literary analysis (e.g., discussing Shakespeare's plays).
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Not used in modern legal/forensic contexts; 'accomplice' is the standard term.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “complice”
Strong
Neutral
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “complice”
- Using 'complice' in modern speech/writing instead of 'accomplice'.
- Mispronouncing it as /kəmˈpliːs/ (like 'comply').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, but it is an archaic variant of 'accomplice' and is not used in contemporary English.
Primarily in historical texts, older English literature, and works by authors like Shakespeare.
Always use 'accomplice' in modern writing and speech. 'Complice' will sound odd and outdated.
No, the core meaning is identical; 'complice' is simply the older spelling/form.
A person who helps another to commit a crime or wrongdoing.
Complice is usually archaic/literary in register.
Complice: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkɒmplɪs/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkɑːmplɪs/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'COMPLICE' as the COMPLICated, old-fashioned version of 'accomplice'.
Conceptual Metaphor
PARTNERSHIP IS COMPLICITY (for illicit acts).
Practice
Quiz
The word 'complice' is best described as: