is fancy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is fancy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is elaborate, stylish, or sophisticated in nature. Example: "The restaurant's decor is fancy, with chandeliers and elegant table settings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

What they don't find is fancy food.

The New York Times - Travel

"Tell me where is fancy bred?

The Guardian - Music

Little else is fancy about the Savannah team's trappings.

The New York Times - Sports

Creole is fancy and urban; Cajun is simple and country.

The New York Times - Food

And then maybe the third or fourth bullet point is fancy data analysis.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Invensys's forte is fancy electronics, for instance to ensure an uninterrupted power supply.

The Economist

"I never see any home cooking – all I get is fancy stuff".

Independent

It is fancy enough for special occasions and comfortable enough for a casual evening with friends.

The New York Times

The main dining room, a few steps down, is fancy and formal, yet stylish.

The New York Times - Food

In London, the latest conversation catalyst is Fancy Footwerk Spotlight Aerobics (myspace.com/fancyfootwerk).com/fancyfootwerk

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The hotel is fancy, with views over the bay and the distant fort.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a specific item or event, use "is fancy" to quickly convey that it's elaborate or high-class. For example: "The gala dinner is fancy, with a multi-course meal and live orchestra."

Common error

Avoid using "is fancy" excessively in formal or professional contexts. While acceptable in casual conversation, more precise terms like "is sophisticated" or "is elaborate" may be more appropriate. Maintain a professional tone by choosing vocabulary that aligns with the setting.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is fancy" functions as a predicative adjective, describing the subject's characteristic of being elaborate or stylish. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's a grammatically sound construction commonly used to attribute a quality of sophistication to something. Many examples of Ludwig demonstrate its usage in various contexts, particularly describing aesthetics or experiences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is fancy" serves as a versatile descriptor for anything elaborate, stylish, or sophisticated. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across various contexts. While commonly found in neutral to informal settings like news articles and blogs, it's advisable to opt for more precise language in formal academic or scientific writing. Remember, while the phrase is widely understood, being mindful of the audience is crucial for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is elaborate

Focuses on the complexity and detail of something.

is upscale

Emphasizes the high-class or luxurious nature.

is sophisticated

Highlights the refined and cultured qualities.

is ornate

Stresses the decorative and embellished aspects.

is luxurious

Conveys a sense of richness and indulgence.

is elegant

Highlights the graceful and stylish qualities.

is stylish

Focuses on being fashionable and up-to-date.

is premium

Emphasizes the superior quality and value.

is deluxe

Highlights the extra features and comfort.

is high-end

Focuses on the top-of-the-line or most expensive options.

FAQs

How can I use "is fancy" in a sentence?

You can use "is fancy" to describe something that is elaborate, stylish, or sophisticated. For example, "The restaurant's decor "is fancy", with chandeliers and elegant table settings."

What can I say instead of "is fancy"?

You can use alternatives like "is elaborate", "is upscale", or "is sophisticated" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "is fancy" or "is fancier"?

"Is fancy" is a descriptive phrase, while "is fancier" is a comparative phrase. Use "is fancier" when comparing two things: "This restaurant "is fancier" than that one."

What's the difference between "is fancy" and "is luxurious"?

"Is fancy" generally implies something elaborate or stylish, whereas "is luxurious" suggests something rich and indulgent. A hotel could "is fancy" with elaborate decorations, but a resort could "is luxurious" with high-end amenities and services.