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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

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insufficient by far

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "insufficient by far" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize that something is significantly lacking or inadequate compared to what is needed or expected. Example: "The resources allocated for the project were insufficient by far, leading to delays and unmet goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Nevertheless, this stimulation is insufficient in P, who by decreasing N4 levels are by far less protected than F.

Acquired myopathy is by far the most common cause underlying this specific muscle weakness, but is frequently misdiagnosed due to insufficient diagnostic criteria or methodological limitations [ 5, 6].

By far.

News & Media

The New York Times

By far, and by far.

News & Media

The New York Times

Oh, yeah, by far.

News & Media

The New Yorker

He failed by far.

"By far," Jones said.

Worse by far.

Technical and financial support for the development of biogas technology was insufficient so far.

Oh definitely Birchfield, by far.

A By far the worst.

News & Media

The New York Times
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Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "insufficient by far" when you want to strongly emphasize that something is not adequate. It adds a layer of intensity to the statement.

Common error

While "insufficient by far" is grammatically correct, its emphatic nature might make it sound less objective in formal or academic writing. Opt for a more neutral tone by using phrases like "far from sufficient" or "inadequate" to maintain professionalism.

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

82%

Authority and reliability

4.5/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The phrase "insufficient by far" functions as an intensifier to modify a noun or noun phrase, emphasizing the degree to which something is inadequate or lacking. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

33%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Science & Research

7%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "insufficient by far" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression that emphasizes the inadequacy of something. Ludwig AI confirms its usability, indicating that it serves to intensify the sense of lack. While suitable for various contexts, including news, science, and general conversation, its emphatic nature may warrant careful consideration in formal writing, where neutrality is preferred. Alternatives such as "nowhere near enough" or "grossly inadequate" can offer similar meanings with subtle differences in tone. The phrase's frequency and authoritative sources further validate its place in standard English usage.

FAQs

How can I use "insufficient by far" in a sentence?

You can use "insufficient by far" to emphasize that something is greatly inadequate. For example, "The resources allocated were "insufficient by far" to complete the project on time."

What are some alternatives to "insufficient by far"?

Alternatives include "nowhere near enough", "grossly inadequate", or "far from adequate". These phrases convey a similar meaning of significant inadequacy.

Is "insufficient by far" suitable for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "insufficient by far" can sound emphatic. For formal contexts, consider using more neutral alternatives like "inadequate" or "not sufficient".

What's the difference between "insufficient" and "insufficient by far"?

"Insufficient" means not enough. Adding "by far" intensifies the meaning, emphasizing a greater degree of inadequacy. It suggests that something is significantly lacking.

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Source & Trust

82%

Authority and reliability

4.5/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: