flat wrong

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "flat wrong" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that is completely incorrect or untrue. Example: "The article's claim about the economy was flat wrong; recent data shows the exact opposite is true."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Opinion

Politics

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

I was flat wrong".

The New Yorker

But that's flat wrong.

The New York Times

"Just flat wrong".

Independent

That was flat wrong.

The New York Times

That's just flat wrong.

The New York Times - Sports

But he's flat wrong.

The New York Times

They are flat wrong.

The Guardian - Opinion

Your suggestion is flat wrong".

The New York Times

"That assumption is flat wrong.

The New York Times

"That idea was flat wrong".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

That's flat wrong.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "flat wrong" to directly and clearly state that something is entirely incorrect, leaving no room for doubt. This phrase is best suited for situations where you want to express strong disagreement or contradiction.

Common error

While "flat wrong" is widely understood, it can come across as too informal or blunt in certain professional or academic settings. Consider using more nuanced or polite expressions like "completely incorrect" or "entirely inaccurate" when addressing superiors or writing formally.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "flat wrong" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun or pronoun (often implicit). It's used to express a strong and direct assertion of incorrectness. The examples from Ludwig confirm its use in diverse contexts to firmly contradict statements or ideas.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Opinion

24%

Politics

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

4%

Science

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "flat wrong" is a common and direct way to express that something is entirely incorrect. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used, especially in news and media. While effective for conveying strong disagreement, consider the context and audience, as it may be too informal for academic or professional settings. Alternatives like "completely incorrect" or "entirely inaccurate" can provide a more formal tone. Remember to use "flat wrong" when you want to be unambiguous about an error, but be mindful of the register to ensure your message is well-received.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

completely incorrect

Emphasizes the thoroughness of the inaccuracy.

utterly false

Highlights the lack of truthfulness.

dead wrong

An informal expression stressing strong disagreement and error.

absolutely mistaken

Focuses on the error in judgment or understanding.

entirely inaccurate

Stresses the comprehensive nature of the error.

patently untrue

Indicates the falsity is obvious and easily detectable.

categorically false

Emphasizes a firm and unequivocal denial of truth.

wholly erroneous

Suggests a more formal and complete form of error.

a total fabrication

Implies the statement is not just wrong, but intentionally made up.

in complete error

Highlights the state of being mistaken in a formal way.

FAQs

How can I use "flat wrong" in a sentence?

Use "flat wrong" to assert that a statement or idea is entirely incorrect. For example, "The assumption that the project would be completed on time was "flat wrong"; we're already behind schedule".

What's a more formal alternative to "flat wrong"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "completely incorrect", "entirely inaccurate", or "wholly erroneous". These options convey the same meaning but are less colloquial than "flat wrong".

Is "flat wrong" too informal for academic writing?

In most academic writing, "flat wrong" may be perceived as too informal. Opt for more neutral and precise language such as "categorically false" or "demonstrably untrue".

When is it appropriate to use "flat wrong"?

It is appropriate to use "flat wrong" in informal conversations, opinion pieces, or situations where a direct and unambiguous expression of disagreement is needed. It's commonly found in news articles and blogs.