is far from simple

USAGE SUMMARY

'is far from simple' is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
You can use it to express the idea that a task or situation is complex or difficult. For example: "Negotiating a peaceful resolution to the conflict is far from simple."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But her identity is far from simple.

The New Yorker

The issue is far from simple.

The New York Times - Health

This however, is far from simple.

The New Yorker

The problem is far from simple.

Columbia University

"Identifying 'the facts' is far from simple.

The New York Times

Answering them is far from simple.

The Guardian - Sport

But the picture is far from simple.

The Guardian - Opinion

Finding a fix is far from simple.

The New York Times

Meaning, as might be expected, is far from simple.

Stanford University

However, communicating these activities is far from simple.

Harvard University

The answer to who is better is far from simple.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider your audience when using this phrase. While widely understood, ensure that a more direct statement of complexity wouldn't be more effective, depending on the context.

Common error

Avoid using "is far from simple" when the complexity is already obvious. Overusing it can make your writing sound verbose or condescending. Sometimes, a simpler phrasing is better.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is far from simple" functions as a qualifier, emphasizing that something is not as straightforward as it might initially appear. As Ludwig demonstrates, it introduces a sense of complexity or difficulty that needs further consideration.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

31%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "is far from simple" is a versatile phrase used to underscore the complexity of a topic that might seem straightforward at first glance. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various domains, including news, academia, and science. While effective, remember to use it judiciously to avoid redundancy, focusing on situations where the added emphasis truly enhances understanding. Alternatives such as "is quite complex" or "is not straightforward" can be used to vary your phrasing. As seen from the many examples provided by Ludwig, the phrase is frequently used in authoritative sources such as The New York Times and The Guardian, suggesting its acceptance in professional and academic writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is not straightforward

Substitutes "straightforward" for "simple", maintaining a similar level of formality.

is quite complex

Replaces "far from simple" with a direct indication of complexity, slightly reducing emphasis.

is rather complicated

Uses "complicated" instead of "simple", softening the tone slightly.

is no easy task

Shifts from describing a state to describing an action's difficulty.

is a complex undertaking

Similar to "is no easy task", but implies a larger, more ambitious project.

is more involved than it appears

Adds an element of deceptive simplicity, implying hidden complexity.

is a multifaceted issue

Highlights the many aspects and perspectives involved.

is not as easy as it seems

Similar to the previous, but more informal.

presents significant challenges

Focuses on the challenges posed by the subject, rather than its inherent complexity.

is fraught with difficulties

Emphasizes the presence of numerous problems and obstacles.

FAQs

How can I use "is far from simple" in a sentence?

You can use "is far from simple" to emphasize the hidden complexity of a topic. For example, "While the solution might seem obvious, the reality "is far from simple"."

What phrases can I use instead of "is far from simple"?

Alternatives include "is quite complex", "is not straightforward", or "presents significant challenges", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "is far from simple" and "is not simple"?

"Is not simple" is a direct negation, while "is far from simple" implies a greater degree of hidden complexity or difficulty. The latter suggests that something might appear simple on the surface but is actually quite intricate.

When is it best to use "is far from simple" in writing?

It's best used when you want to highlight a contrast between an apparent simplicity and an underlying complexity. This can add emphasis and encourage the reader to consider the issue more deeply.