are not pointed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are not pointed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that lacks a sharp or defined tip or direction, often in a metaphorical sense as well. Example: "The arrows in the design are not pointed, giving it a softer appearance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

No Stabbing Many pigeon spikes are not pointed.

The New York Times

'* * * It is objected that the particular passages of the letter which are required are not pointed out.

Cornell University

Here knees are not straightened and feet are not pointed; soles and thighs are a primary source of rhythm.

The New York Times - Arts

But those of us espousing such actions must respect, or at least acknowledge, that those torpedoes are not pointed at us.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

They are not pointing to Shinran's dharma door.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

You aren't pointing at things.

The Guardian - Film

It is not pointing a moral.

Independent

It's not pointing fingers.

The New York Times - Sports

"We're not pointing fingers.

The New York Times

"I'm not pointing fingers," Pierce said.

The New York Times - Sports

And I'm not pointing thumbs here.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are not pointed", ensure the context clearly indicates what is lacking a point or direction. Consider whether a more specific verb would provide greater clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "are not pointed" in purely literal contexts when a more descriptive term for bluntness or roundness would be more appropriate. Ensure the metaphorical usage aligns with the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are not pointed" functions primarily as a verb phrase expressing a state of being where something lacks a pointed end or a specific direction. Ludwig AI confirms its usability, and the examples show it describing physical attributes and abstract intentions.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

40%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are not pointed" is a grammatically sound expression used to describe a lack of sharpness or direction, both literally and metaphorically. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is suitable for written English. Although its usage is relatively rare, it appears in reputable sources such as The New York Times and academic publications. When employing this phrase, ensure that the context provides clarity regarding what lacks the "point" and consider whether a more precise term might enhance the writing's impact. Alternatives like ""are not directed"" or ""are not aimed"" may offer improved specificity depending on the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

do not point

A more concise version, lacking the passive voice.

aren't aimed

A contraction emphasizing the lack of aim or purpose.

are not directed

Emphasizes the lack of intended direction or target.

are not targeted

Indicates that something is not specifically aimed at a particular recipient or objective.

do not aim

Changes the focus from physical pointing to aiming, implying a lack of direction.

are not aligned

Conveys a lack of alignment or correspondence.

are not focused

Shifts the meaning to a lack of concentration or clarity.

are not geared

Implies a lack of preparation or suitability for a specific purpose.

do not indicate

Focuses on a lack of indication or signaling.

are not inclined

Highlights a lack of inclination or tendency.

FAQs

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

You can use "are not pointed" to describe physical objects lacking a sharp tip (e.g., "The pigeon spikes "are not pointed"") or, metaphorically, to describe a lack of direction or intention (e.g., "The accusations "are not pointed" at anyone specifically").

What's a good alternative to "are not pointed"?

Depending on the context, alternatives include "are not directed", "are not aimed", or "are not focused". Choose the phrase that best captures the intended meaning.

Is it better to say "are not pointed" or "aren't pointed"?

Both "are not pointed" and "aren't pointed" are grammatically correct. "Aren't pointed" is a contraction and is more informal, while "are not pointed" is more formal and emphasizes each word.

When should I use "are not pointed" metaphorically?

Use "are not pointed" metaphorically when you want to convey a lack of clear direction, intention, or focus. For instance, you might say, "The criticisms "are not pointed" at any individual but rather at the system as a whole."