are not complete

USAGE SUMMARY

"are not complete" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is not finished. For example, "The plans for the new office space are not complete yet."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

These two things separately are not complete.

The New York Times

"I'm sorry we are not complete.

Independent

The data are not complete.

University of California, Berkeley

Even such precautions are not complete solutions.

The New York Times

But they are not complete idiots.

The New York Times

Even these lists are not complete.

Harvard University

The best projects are not complete cookie cutter.

The New York Times

Like most straw men, Mr. Obama's are not complete fabrications.

The New York Times

But even here the complications and agonies are not complete.

The Guardian - Film

The numerals are not complete in all traditions.

Britannica

I send some but they are not complete jet.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are not complete", ensure the context clearly indicates what is missing or required for completion. This helps avoid ambiguity and provides specific information to the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "are not complete" as a vague statement of inadequacy. Specify what aspects are incomplete to make your writing more precise and actionable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are not complete" functions primarily as a predicate adjective, describing the state of a noun or noun phrase as being unfinished or lacking necessary elements. Ludwig examples show it frequently used to qualify data, plans, or solutions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

32%

Academia

22%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are not complete" is a common and grammatically correct way to express that something is unfinished or lacking essential components. According to Ludwig, this phrase functions as a predicate adjective and is employed across various registers, including neutral, academic, and scientific. It's important to be specific about what aspects are incomplete when using this phrase to avoid vagueness and enhance clarity. Alternatives include "are unfinished", "are lacking" and "are imperfect", each carrying slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are unfinished

Focuses specifically on the state of being not yet brought to an end or conclusion.

are not comprehensive

Specifically denotes that the coverage or scope is limited and not all-inclusive.

are imperfect

Emphasizes the lack of flawlessness or the presence of defects.

are lacking

Highlights the absence of necessary elements or qualities.

are deficient

Stresses a shortage or inadequacy in quantity or quality.

are partial

Indicates that something is only a fraction of the whole.

are fragmented

Suggests that something is broken into pieces or incomplete parts.

are rudimentary

Highlights the basic or underdeveloped nature of something.

are sketchy

Implies a superficial or incomplete representation.

are unrefined

Emphasizes the raw or unprocessed state of something.

FAQs

What does "are not complete" mean?

The phrase "are not complete" indicates that something is unfinished, lacking essential parts, or not fully realized.

How can I use "are not complete" in a sentence?

You can use "are not complete" to describe anything that is lacking full development or finalization. For example, "The plans "are unfinished" and require further input."

What are some alternatives to saying "are not complete"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "are unfinished", "are lacking", or "are imperfect".

Is it more formal to say "are not complete" or "are incomplete"?

"Are incomplete" is often perceived as slightly more formal than "are not complete", although both are acceptable in most contexts. The choice depends on the overall tone and register of your writing.