Wheels within wheels

usgb
phrase

A situation or system that is complex or difficult to understand because it has so many parts that seem connected or affected by each other.

Government negotiations often involve nuances and subtleties, they are really wheels within wheels.
Visual representation of "wheels within wheels" - A situation or system that is complex or difficult to understand because it has so many parts that seem connected or affected by each other.

Often appears as...

  • complex as wheels within wheels
  • wheels within wheels situation

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "wheels within wheels"
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Hidden Complexity

The phrase suggests subtle connections that complicate situations.

Illustration for Hidden Complexity
Negotiating peace was wheels within wheels due to many secret treaties.
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Metaphorical Puzzle

Used metaphorically to express a puzzle or something challenging to decipher.

Illustration for Metaphorical Puzzle
Solving this code is like wheels within wheels; it's very intricate.
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Not Literal

It's not about actual wheels, but about the complexity of elements in a system.

Illustration for Not Literal
The new taxation laws are wheels within wheels and challenging to grasp.
Visual representation of the word "Wheels within wheels"

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