Complicarmi

Complicarmi is the infinitive form of the Italian verb complicare with the clitic pronoun mi attached, forming a pronominal infinitive. It literally means “to complicate myself,” but in practice it is used to express making one’s own life, plans, or situation more difficult. It is most often found in phrases such as complicarmi la vita (“to make my life harder”) or complicarmi i piani (“to complicate my plans”).

Grammatically, complicarmi is a non-finite form that can occur after auxiliary or modal verbs and in other constructions that govern an infinitive. The attached pronoun mi corresponds to the subject, typically in first person singular. The same pattern exists with other subjects and pronouns (ti complicarti la vita, si complicarsi la situazione, etc.). The verb’s root is complicare, meaning to complicate, with etymology tracing back to Latin to fold or twist together.

Usage and meaning. Complicarmi is commonly used to describe actions or decisions that unintentionally or intentionally create more troubles for oneself, or to emphasize self-imposed difficulties. It appears in both reflective expressions and in broader contexts about personal plans or circumstances. Examples include non voglio complicarmi la vita (“I don’t want to make my life more difficult”) and mi sto complicando la situazione (“I’m making the situation more complicated for myself”).

See also. Complicare, the non-pronominal form; phrases and idioms built around life and plans becoming more difficult; Italian pronominal infinitives and the use of clitic pronouns with infinitives.