Sophisticated negative?

[Andreana]

Hi,

Does the word 'sophisticated' also have a negative notch? I understand it can mean 'intelligent' and 'highly developed' but what about the verb 'to sophisticate'?
Many thanks in advance
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[Alan]

Hi Andreana,

Yes, it usually means 'cultivated' in the sense of knowing and understanding topics than an unworldy person would not know but doesn't usually have a negative flavour. The verb, which I believe is not very common, means to deprive someone of innocence and naturalness with regard to the way the world works.

Alan
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English as a Second Language
You can read my ESL story Present Simple

[Andreana]

Hi Alan,

Thanks a lot for your good explanation. Now I know how to use the word properly.
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A smile will open doors ;-)