are not rigorous

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are not rigorous" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that lacks strictness, precision, or thoroughness, often in academic or analytical contexts. Example: "The methods used in this study are not rigorous enough to draw definitive conclusions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Our discipline is all too often a haven for people who are not rigorous and who are sometimes antirationalist".

The New York Times - Arts

Inspections are not rigorous, Mr. Sato said, because agency inspectors are not trained thoroughly, and safety standards are watered down to meet levels that the utilities can financially bear, he and others said.

The New York Times

A panel of experts appointed by Schools Chancellor Harold O. Levy has recommended that a more demanding high school math curriculum be created for students who want it because, it said, current programs geared to state standards are not rigorous enough to meet the needs of thousands of college-bound students.

The New York Times

B2 ARTS E1-8 EDUCATION Making Math Harder An expert panel appointed by Chancellor Harold O. Levy recommended that a more demanding high school math curriculum be created for New York City students who want it, because programs geared to state standards are not rigorous enough.

The New York Times

Scientific journals do have strict review processes in place, but these processes are not rigorous enough.

Science Magazine

It is acknowledged that they are not rigorous but rather suggestive of intimate possibilities is conducting futures research and workshops.

European Journal of Futures Research

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

When cautions are handed down repeatedly, fines aren't paid, or community sentences aren't rigorous, a damaging message is sent to offenders.

The Guardian - Opinion

Nearly all university courses are modular and I have yet to hear criticism that they aren't rigorous enough," said Mr Lightman.

BBC

"The courts aren't rigorous enough when it comes to figuring out the status of their employees," she said.

Vice

He said: 'It's not rigorous.

The Guardian

Even the Montanists, however, were not rigorous enough for Tertullian.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When criticizing a methodology or analysis, use "are not rigorous" to clearly convey that the standards of strictness, accuracy, or thoroughness have not been met.

Common error

Avoid using "are not rigorous" when a milder critique is more appropriate. Consider whether "could be improved" or "require further development" might be more accurate and less dismissive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are not rigorous" functions as a descriptive phrase, typically serving as a predicate adjective. It evaluates the quality or standard of something, indicating a deficiency in thoroughness, accuracy, or adherence to strict procedures. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are not rigorous" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to denote a lack of strictness, precision, or thoroughness. As Ludwig AI points out, it's suitable for describing methodologies, analyses, or standards that fail to meet required levels. While versatile, remember to choose alternative wording, such as lack rigor, for different stylistic needs or levels of formality. Usage is frequently observed in news, scientific publications, and encyclopedias. Be mindful of the context to ensure the phrase's critical tone is appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lack rigor

Emphasizes the absence of strictness or thoroughness.

are insufficiently strict

Highlights a deficiency in adherence to rules or standards.

are not thorough

Focuses on the lack of comprehensive detail or completeness.

are not exacting

Stresses a lack of demanding precision or accuracy.

are not stringent

Implies a lack of severity or strict enforcement.

are deficient in rigor

Highlights a lack of the quality of being strict or accurate.

are not precise

Focuses on a lack of accuracy or exactness.

are not meticulous

Emphasizes the lack of careful attention to detail.

are wanting in thoroughness

Highlights a deficiency in comprehensive detail.

are lax

Suggests a relaxed or lenient approach, lacking strictness.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "are not rigorous" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases such as "lack rigor" or "are deficient in rigor". These options often suit academic or professional contexts.

What are some less critical alternatives to "are not rigorous"?

If you want to be less critical, try phrases like "are not thorough", "are not meticulous", or "are not precise". These soften the criticism while still pointing out areas for improvement.

Is it always negative to say something "are not rigorous"?

Yes, the phrase "are not rigorous" typically implies a negative evaluation, suggesting that something lacks the necessary strictness, precision, or thoroughness. However, the intent and impact can depend on the context and the speaker's tone.

What's the difference between saying something is "are not strict" versus "are not rigorous"?

"Are not strict" suggests a lack of adherence to rules or standards, while "are not rigorous" points to a lack of thoroughness, precision, or accuracy in a process, method, or analysis. "Are not rigorous" is generally used in more formal and analytical contexts.