doesn't make much sense

USAGE SUMMARY

"doesn't make much sense" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use this phrase to express a lack of understanding of something, for example: The instructions for this task don't make much sense.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"That doesn't make much sense".

The New York Times

This doesn't make much sense.

The New York Times

It just doesn't make much sense".

The New York Times

"It doesn't make much sense.

The New York Times - Tech

But that standard doesn't make much sense.

The New York Times

"That doesn't make much sense to me.

The New York Times

That doesn't make much sense, does it?

The New York Times

I agree that it doesn't make much sense.

The New Yorker

When he does get specific, he doesn't make much sense.

The New York Times

What happened next still doesn't make much sense to me.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Quotation of the Week "Well, it doesn't make much sense.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "doesn't make much sense", ensure the context clearly indicates what is illogical or incomprehensible. Provide enough information for the reader to understand your perspective.

Common error

Avoid using "doesn't make much sense" without specifying what exactly is unclear. Vague statements can confuse your audience. Always provide context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "doesn't make much sense" functions as an idiomatic expression used to indicate a lack of logical coherence or comprehensibility. As Ludwig AI indicates, it expresses a lack of understanding.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Science

8%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "doesn't make much sense" is a common and correct idiomatic expression used to convey a lack of logical coherence or understanding. Ludwig AI confirms its validity for use in written English. While versatile, it is important to provide context to clarify what is unclear. It appears frequently in news and media, and is suitable for neutral and informal contexts. For more formal settings, alternatives like "is illogical" may be more appropriate. Remember to avoid vagueness to ensure your message is clear and effective. Its widespread use across reputable sources underscores its reliability and appropriateness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is difficult to understand

Directly states the challenge in understanding.

is not easily understood

Emphasizes that understanding requires effort.

is not very logical

Focuses on the lack of logical reasoning.

is somewhat nonsensical

Suggests that the idea lacks inherent meaning.

is rather confusing

Focuses on the perplexity it causes.

is quite illogical

Emphasizes a stronger degree of illogic.

is quite puzzling

Highlights the mystery or enigma.

is hard to fathom

Highlights the difficulty in understanding.

is simply unintelligible

Implies the message is impossible to decipher.

is beyond comprehension

Stresses the inability to understand at all.

FAQs

How can I use "doesn't make much sense" in a sentence?

Use "doesn't make much sense" to express that something is illogical, confusing, or difficult to understand. For example, "The instructions for assembling this furniture "don't make much sense".".

What's a more formal way to say "doesn't make much sense"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "is illogical", "is not readily comprehensible", or "lacks coherence". These options offer a more professional way to express a lack of understanding.

Which is correct, "doesn't make much sense" or "don't make much sense"?

"Doesn't make much sense" is correct when referring to a singular subject or concept. "Don't make much sense" is used with plural subjects. For example, "This rule doesn't make much sense," but "These rules "don't make much sense"".

What can I say instead of "doesn't make much sense" to express confusion?

To express confusion, you can use alternatives such as "is confusing", "is puzzling", or "I don't understand". These phrases convey a sense of bewilderment or lack of clarity.