does not please

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "does not please" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express dissatisfaction or discontent with something, often in a formal or literary context. Example: "The outcome of the meeting does not please the stakeholders, who expected a more favorable resolution."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

Still, he does not please everyone.

The Economist

And this does not please everyone.

The New York Times - Arts

This does not please her mother.

The New York Times

However, hang on "Kick ass" does not please the prophet.

The New Yorker

If it does not, please let us know".

The New Yorker

Shiny, puffy skin does not please the eye.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

"This doesn't please me".

The New York Times - Arts

It doesn't please me.

The Guardian - Film

The world today doesn't please me.

The Guardian

The citation doesn't please some libertarians.

The New York Times

This doesn't please the security men in power".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "does not please" to express disapproval or dissatisfaction in a formal or literary context. For more casual situations, consider alternatives like "doesn't like" or "disagrees with".

Common error

Avoid using "does not please" in everyday conversation or informal writing, as it can sound overly formal or stilted. Opt for more natural-sounding alternatives like "displeases" or "annoys".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "does not please" functions as a verb phrase expressing disapproval or lack of satisfaction. It utilizes the auxiliary verb "does" to form the negative and is followed by "not" and the main verb "please". Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

12%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "does not please" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to indicate disapproval or dissatisfaction. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and notes its presence in various reputable sources. While versatile, it tends to be more common in neutral to formal contexts such as news media. Consider alternative phrasings like "is displeasing to" or "fails to satisfy" for specific nuances. It's best to avoid "does not please" in very informal settings, opting instead for more casual expressions of dislike.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is displeasing to

Replaces the negative form "does not please" with a direct statement of being displeasing.

fails to satisfy

Focuses on the lack of fulfillment or satisfaction provided.

is unsatisfactory for

Highlights the inadequacy or unacceptability of something.

meets with disapproval from

Emphasizes the negative reaction or censure from a specific group.

is frowned upon by

Indicates a level of social or cultural disapproval.

elicits a negative response from

Highlights the negative reaction or censure from a specific group.

is not well-received by

Indicates a neutral or mild dissatisfaction or disapproval.

is unpalatable to

Suggests something is distasteful or offensive to someone.

grates on

Implies irritation or annoyance caused by something.

offends

Suggests a violation of moral or aesthetic principles.

FAQs

How can I use "does not please" in a sentence?

The phrase "does not please" is used to express that someone or something is not liked or appreciated. For example, "The new policy does not please the employees."

What can I say instead of "does not please"?

You can use alternatives like "is displeasing to", "fails to satisfy", or "is unsatisfactory for" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "does not please" or "don't please"?

"Does not please" is grammatically correct for singular subjects in the third person (e.g., "He does not please"). "Don't please" is incorrect in this context; "do not please" is generally used for plural subjects or in imperative sentences.

What's the difference between "does not please" and "displeases"?

"Does not please" is a periphrastic form that emphasizes the lack of satisfaction, whereas "displeases" is a direct verb. While "does not please" can sometimes sound more formal, "displeases" is more concise.