are not incorrect

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are not incorrect" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is acceptable or valid, even if it may not be the most common or preferred option. Example: "While some may argue that the answers provided are not incorrect, they may not fully address the question asked."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"But you are not incorrect.

The New Yorker

Although these inferences are not incorrect, they are murky.

Critical Care

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Rumors that she wants to place more experimental, female, and internationally flavored fiction aren't incorrect, just overinflated.

The New York Times

Who Are You Voting For? Yes, I know the grammar is incorrect and while that would normally annoy me, it's not incorrect once you understand the question.

Huffington Post

"They're not incorrect.

The New York Times

And he was not incorrect.

The New York Times

But a correction in this space on May 2 characterized the article erroneously: it was not incorrect.

The New York Times

"Presumptive nominee" is not incorrect, but connotation counts; presumptive strikes me as presumptuous.

The New York Times - Magazine

It was the sort of explanation that was not incorrect, but that reeked of denial.

The New York Times - Sports

It seems as though that aspect of the story was not incorrect and properly bears on the election this year.

The New York Times

Thus, Newton's theory is not incorrect; rather, it constitutes a valid approximation to general relativity under certain conditions.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are not incorrect" when you want to acknowledge a statement's validity, even if it may not be the ideal or most precise formulation. It suggests a basic level of correctness without necessarily implying excellence or complete accuracy.

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on double negatives like "are not incorrect" as they can sometimes create convoluted sentences. Consider whether a more direct, positive phrasing would enhance clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are not incorrect" functions as a qualifier, softening an affirmation. It indicates that something meets a basic standard of truth without necessarily being perfect or ideal. Ludwig AI affirms this as grammaticaly correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

43%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "are not incorrect" is a versatile phrase used to express cautious agreement or acknowledge basic validity, predominantly in news, scientific, and academic contexts. While grammatically correct, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's essential to consider the context and potential for ambiguity. Consider alternatives like "are correct" or "are accurate" for greater clarity, and avoid overuse to maintain concise and impactful writing. The phrase is common, appearing frequently in reliable sources like The New York Times and The Guardian, reflecting its established use in formal and neutral registers.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are not wrong

Simplifies the negation to a more direct opposite.

are actually correct

Emphasizes the accuracy rather than the absence of error.

are substantially correct

Indicates that the statement is correct in most important aspects.

are indeed accurate

Affirms the correctness with a tone of certainty.

are largely accurate

Similar to 'substantially correct', focusing on general accuracy.

are in fact right

Replaces "incorrect" with its direct antonym, "right".

are essentially valid

Focuses on the validity or soundness of the statement.

are technically true

Highlights that the statement is true in a specific or limited sense.

are free from error

Highlights the absence of mistakes or inaccuracies.

are devoid of inaccuracies

Emphasizes the complete absence of errors or inaccuracies.

FAQs

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

You can use "are not incorrect" to express that something is essentially true, even if it may not be the most precise or complete answer. For example: "While the data is limited, the conclusions "are not incorrect"."

What is a more direct alternative to "are not incorrect"?

Instead of "are not incorrect", you can use phrases like "are correct", "are accurate", or "are valid" to convey the same meaning more directly.

When is it appropriate to use "are not incorrect" instead of "are correct"?

"Are not incorrect" is suitable when you want to concede a point without fully endorsing it. It acknowledges a basic level of truth without necessarily implying complete agreement or perfection. Using "are correct" is more affirmative.

Is there a risk of ambiguity when using "are not incorrect"?

Yes, there is a slight risk of ambiguity, as the phrase relies on a double negative. To avoid confusion, ensure the context makes it clear that you're affirming the statement's basic correctness rather than expressing doubt or disagreement. Sometimes, it is better to use a positive phrase like "are accurate".