are not gratuitous

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are not gratuitous" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is not unnecessary or unwarranted, often in discussions about actions, behaviors, or content. Example: "The criticisms offered in the review are not gratuitous; they are based on valid observations that can help improve the work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

"They are not gratuitous.

Independent

These are not gratuitous observations.

The New York Times - Books

The show business references are not gratuitous.

The New York Times

"The lies in novels are not gratuitous — they fill in the insufficiencies of life," he wrote.

The New York Times - Books

"We always like projects where puppets are not gratuitous additions but are unavoidably necessary," Mr. Jones said.

The New York Times

"It's something we all have to police," he added, to ensure that the elements of the series involving Sears are not gratuitous and make sense.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

According to COSCE, its preliminary analysis confirms "the fear that research, development, and innovation is going to suffer another cut which, accumulated to the one that occurred last year and to the near stagnation in real terms of the 2009 budget, means that the alarms aren't gratuitous and that an urgent call must be made to try to redirect the situation".

Science Magazine

They're often kind of awful -- hence the title -- but as Falk noted, their more obnoxious moments aren't gratuitous; each one must serve a purpose.

Huffington Post

It's not gratuitous in any way.

The Guardian

This dishing up of cheesecake is not gratuitous.

The New York Times - Arts

"The violence is not gratuitous; it's part of the narrative," he added.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are not gratuitous" to defend potentially controversial elements in your writing, demonstrating that they serve a specific narrative or thematic purpose. This shows thoughtful intention and artistic merit.

Common error

While "are not gratuitous" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "aren't unnecessary" or "aren't pointless" to maintain a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are not gratuitous" functions as a predicate adjective, modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate that something is not excessive, unnecessary, or unjustified. As Ludwig AI indicates, the expression is grammatically correct and fit to be used in formal English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

10%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are not gratuitous" is a grammatically sound expression used to defend elements perceived as excessive or unnecessary, ensuring they serve a distinct purpose. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and applicability. Predominantly used in news, media, and academic spheres, its register is neutral, leaning towards formal. When using "are not gratuitous", ensure it aligns with the context and isn't overly formal for casual settings. Alternatives like "are not unnecessary" or "are not unwarranted" can provide a more natural tone. Understanding its usage and purpose allows for effective communication, especially when justifying potentially controversial aspects of your work.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are not unwarranted

Focuses on the lack of justification or reason for something.

are not unjustified

Emphasizes the fairness and appropriateness of something.

are not needless

Highlights the essential or required nature of something.

are not uncalled for

Indicates that something is fitting or suitable in the given situation.

are not excessive

Suggests that something is within reasonable limits and not over the top.

are not superfluous

Stresses that something is not extra or unnecessary.

are not groundless

Points out that something has a basis or foundation.

are not unfounded

Highlights that something is based on evidence or fact.

are purposeful

Emphasizes that something has a reason or aim.

serve a purpose

Focuses on the functional value or benefit of something.

FAQs

What does "are not gratuitous" mean?

The phrase "are not gratuitous" means that something is not unnecessary, excessive, or unwarranted. It implies that the thing in question serves a purpose or has a valid reason for existing.

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

You can use "are not gratuitous" to describe elements of a story, argument, or design that might seem excessive but actually serve an important function. For example: "The violent scenes "are not gratuitous"; they highlight the brutal reality of the conflict."

What are some alternatives to "are not gratuitous"?

Alternatives include "are not unnecessary", "are not unwarranted", "are not pointless", or "serve a purpose". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "are not gratuitous"?

It is most appropriate in formal or analytical writing where you want to defend a potentially controversial element by arguing that it is necessary or serves a specific purpose. It's often used in film reviews, literary analysis, or philosophical discussions.