fails to address

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fails to address" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a situation, argument, or issue that has not been adequately considered or responded to. Example: "The report fails to address the key concerns raised by the stakeholders."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"This action fails to address those problems".

The New York Times

BDS fails to address the complexities of such a move.

The Economist

The legislation, however, fails to address several important issues.

The New York Times - Arts

This initiative fails to address the root causes of problems in these factories.

The Guardian

But the focus on "reclaiming" the word slut fails to address the real issue.

The Guardian - Opinion

Even worse, this fashionable view of Stonehenge fails to address or evoke its singularity.

The Guardian - Arts

What the pope fails to address is often just as significant as what he actually says.

The Guardian - Opinion

They are planning to turn their back on him if he fails to address the issue.

The Guardian

But this concession largely fails to address the real constraints on young families.

The New Yorker

Measuring health hazards solely by monitoring contaminants in the air fails to address a larger issue.

The New York Times

It seems to us that any work that fails to address these issues misses the mark.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "fails to address" when you want to critique a specific omission or inadequacy, rather than simply stating a difference of opinion. This adds a layer of analytical depth to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "fails to address" when a topic is merely touched upon briefly. This phrase implies a significant oversight, not just a lack of extensive discussion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fails to address" functions as a verb phrase used to express a critique or highlight a deficiency in a plan, argument, or analysis. As supported by Ludwig, this phrase is commonly found in different contexts, indicating an inadequacy or oversight.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "fails to address" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to critique omissions or inadequacies in various contexts. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its frequent usage across news, scientific, and formal domains. When using this phrase, ensure clarity in defining both the subject and the unaddressed issue, avoiding overstatement of the severity of the oversight. Alternatives such as "does not tackle" or "neglects to consider" can offer nuanced variations in meaning. In essence, "fails to address" serves as a valuable tool for analytical writing, enabling clear identification of shortcomings and areas needing further attention.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

does not tackle

Emphasizes a lack of direct engagement or confrontation with the issue.

neglects to consider

Highlights an oversight or omission in the evaluation or handling of something.

overlooks

Suggests that something is missed or not given due attention.

does not resolve

Focuses on the lack of a solution or conclusion to a problem.

sidesteps the issue

Implies an intentional avoidance of a specific problem or question.

does not come to grips with

Indicates a failure to understand or deal effectively with a complex issue.

leaves unexamined

Emphasizes that something has not been scrutinized or analyzed.

avoids dealing with

Highlights the act of steering clear of a particular matter or concern.

is deficient in addressing

Points out a lack of ability or effectiveness in handling a specific matter.

falls short of addressing

Indicates that an attempt was made, but it didn't fully resolve the problem or issue.

FAQs

How can I use "fails to address" in a sentence?

You can use "fails to address" to point out the shortcomings of a plan, argument, or analysis. For example: "The policy "fails to address" the long-term economic impact."

What are some alternatives to "fails to address"?

Alternatives include "does not tackle", "neglects to consider", or "overlooks", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "fails to address" or "does not address"?

"Fails to address" often implies a stronger critique, suggesting an expected or necessary component is missing. "Does not address" is more neutral, simply stating that something isn't covered.

Can "fails to address" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "fails to address" is suitable for formal writing, especially when providing a critical analysis or evaluation. However, ensure the critique is supported by evidence and reasoned arguments.