are imperfect

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are imperfect" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is not perfect or has flaws. Example: "All human beings are imperfect, and that is what makes us unique."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But polls are imperfect.

The New York Times

You are imperfect.

The New Yorker

Goals, sadly, are imperfect.

The Guardian

Machines are imperfect.

The New York Times

Most are imperfect.

The New York Times

They are imperfect solutions.

The New Yorker

Sometimes the children are imperfect.

The New York Times - Books

Certainly these data are imperfect.

The Economist

Of course, these are imperfect.

The Guardian - Opinion

But those options are imperfect.

The New York Times - Health

The people I care for are imperfect.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are imperfect" to acknowledge limitations or flaws without necessarily condemning. It softens criticism and focuses on realism. For example, "These solutions are imperfect, but they're the best we have."

Common error

While widely applicable, using "are imperfect" repeatedly can sound repetitive or informal, especially in professional or academic writing. Alternate with synonyms like "have limitations" or "are not without fault" to maintain a sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are imperfect" primarily functions as a predicate adjective. It modifies a noun or pronoun, describing its state of being flawed or not perfect. This is supported by Ludwig AI, as well as by the examples provided.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Science

19%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are imperfect" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that serves to acknowledge flaws or limitations. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely applicable and versatile. The phrase is most commonly found in news and media sources, followed by scientific contexts. While suitable for many situations, it's advisable to avoid overuse, especially in formal writing, by considering alternatives such as "have limitations" or "are flawed". Using "are imperfect" effectively involves recognizing its nuanced meaning and applying it appropriately to convey realism and understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have imperfections

Replaces the adjective with a noun, focusing on the existence of flaws.

are flawed

Uses a synonym to describe the state of being imperfect.

are not flawless

Employs a double negative to express a similar idea.

are not without fault

Uses a more formal tone to indicate the presence of errors.

possess limitations

Highlights the constraints and boundaries of something.

are deficient

Indicates a lack of something essential or expected.

are not ideal

Suggests that something does not meet the highest standards.

have shortcomings

Focuses on the negative aspects or weaknesses.

are wanting

Indicates that something is lacking or deficient.

are not up to par

Uses an idiomatic expression to convey inadequacy.

FAQs

How can I use "are imperfect" in a sentence?

You can use "are imperfect" to describe anything that has flaws or is not perfect. For example, "Human beings "are imperfect", and that's what makes us unique."

What are some alternatives to "are imperfect"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "have imperfections", "are flawed", or "are not flawless" as alternatives to "are imperfect".

Is it grammatically correct to say "are imperfect"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. "Are" is a verb that agrees with a plural subject, and "imperfect" is an adjective describing that subject. The phrase "are imperfect" is commonly used and accepted.

What is the difference between "are imperfect" and "are not perfect"?

While both convey a similar meaning, "are imperfect" suggests inherent flaws or shortcomings, while "are not perfect" simply indicates a lack of absolute perfection. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to express.