does not seem to be clear-cut

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "does not seem to be clear-cut" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a situation, concept, or issue that lacks a straightforward or definitive answer. Example: "The results of the study do not seem to be clear-cut, as there are multiple factors influencing the outcome."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

However, this classification does not seem to be clear-cut.

BMC Infectious Diseases

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

But even correlation here doesn't seem to be clear.

Huffington Post

Overall, pearl millet hybrid breeding in WA seems very promising, but there do not seem to be clear "natural" heterotic groups among WA pearl millet landraces.

Field Crops Research

However, there does not seem to be a clear-cut SC influence on the zonal wind, semidiurnal tide, or gravity wave activity.

Chemical Reviews

A cut in employment protection does not seem to be an adequate measure to regain international competitiveness.

SERIEs

But even with those, there doesn't seem to be a clear cut way to start making real money without pouring a ton more in.

TechCrunch

There doesn't seem to be one clear winner.

Huffington Post

(Senior Manager, Clinical Services) To be frank there doesn't seem to be a very clear policy….

BMC Infectious Diseases

To be frank there doesn't seem to be a very clear policy….

BMC Infectious Diseases

But the sanctions do not seem to be the driving force behind the subsidy cuts.

The New York Times

But while the language seems clear enough, NIH officials don't seem to be listening.

Science Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "does not seem to be clear-cut", ensure the context provides enough information to understand what is lacking clarity. Vague use can weaken your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "does not seem to be clear-cut" repeatedly without providing specific reasons or examples. Overuse diminishes its impact and makes your writing less precise.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "does not seem to be clear-cut" functions as a qualifier, expressing uncertainty or ambiguity regarding a particular situation, decision, or outcome. It softens a statement, suggesting that the matter isn't straightforward or definitively resolved. As noted by Ludwig, the phrase indicates a lack of a simple, unambiguous answer.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Wiki

7%

Reference

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "does not seem to be clear-cut" serves as a qualifier to express uncertainty or ambiguity. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and prevalence in both scientific and news contexts. While versatile, it is essential to use the phrase judiciously, avoiding overuse and ensuring contextual support for its implications. Alternatives such as "is not entirely obvious" or "the picture is unclear" can provide variety while maintaining similar meaning. By understanding its function, purpose, and potential pitfalls, writers can effectively employ this phrase to convey nuanced assessments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

doesn't seem to be straightforward

Replaces "clear-cut" with "straightforward".

doesn't appear to be straightforward

Changes the verb "seem" to "appear" and replaces "clear-cut" with "straightforward".

the picture is unclear

Uses a metaphorical expression to denote a lack of clarity.

is not entirely obvious

Substitutes "clear-cut" with "entirely obvious", indicating a lack of immediate clarity.

lacks a definitive answer

Focuses on the absence of a final, conclusive solution or explanation.

is not unequivocally established

Replaces the entire phrase with a more formal and emphatic expression of uncertainty.

the situation is ambiguous

Simplifies the phrase, focusing on the ambiguity of the situation.

remains open to interpretation

Highlights the subjective nature and potential for multiple understandings.

is subject to debate

Emphasizes the contentious nature of the issue and ongoing disagreement.

is not set in stone

Uses an idiomatic expression to convey the lack of rigidity or certainty.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "does not seem to be clear-cut" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives like "is not unequivocally established", "lacks a definitive answer", or "remains open to interpretation". These options provide a more sophisticated and nuanced expression of uncertainty.

What's a simpler way to say "does not seem to be clear-cut"?

You can use simpler phrases like "is not entirely obvious" or "the picture is unclear". These alternatives are easier to understand while maintaining the same basic meaning.

How do I use "does not seem to be clear-cut" in a sentence?

Use "does not seem to be clear-cut" when you want to express that something is not straightforward or definite. For example: "The evidence does not seem to be clear-cut, requiring further investigation."

Is it better to use "does not seem to be clear-cut" or "is not clear-cut"?

Both are correct, but "does not seem to be clear-cut" implies a degree of uncertainty or subjectivity in your assessment. "Is not clear-cut" is a more direct statement. The choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.