A recent study shows that the phrase "These are complex times," and other derivatives such as "These are complicated times," have increased in usage by over 6,000% in the last month alone.

The study combed available media, from news reports, to recorded public speaking engagements, and journalism. "These are complex times," and other phrases like it have seen increased usage over the past year, as the United States political sphere has heated up significantly.

Dr. Jay Ashton said the study is a good indication of where we are in modern history, adding, "What we can glean from these results is that we do, in fact, live in times that are difficult to explain, or even process. Our data makes this fairly clear."

The study does not only validate many suspicions that these times are complex. It additionally serves to remind those outside the United States that the majority of U.S. citizens will be unable to explain the current state of affairs when asked by foreigners.

"This definitely takes a lot of pressure off me," says Wynona Barron, who is soon to embark on a two week European vacation. "Because this study was published I don't think I'll have to explain myself and America as much on my trip. If somebody asks, I can just show them the data."

The frequency with which "complex times" is used can only be compared to the 8,111% increase in usage over two years of the phrase, "Nowadays, it's hard to imagine a world without the internet."

Dr. Ashton and his collaborators are currently in the process of gaining access to private email servers through Google and Yahoo to further refine their data.

"We're estimating that, in combing regular citizens' emails, the existing numbers could increase up to ten-fold," said Ashton. "That will even further clarify how complicated everything actually is."