is incorrect

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is incorrect" is grammatically correct and is often used in written English.
For example, you could use it in a sentence such as, "The answer he provided is incorrect."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Again, this is incorrect.

The Economist

Plainly, this is incorrect.

The Economist

FACT: That is incorrect.

The New Yorker

That is incorrect.

The New York Times

This is incorrect.

The Guardian - Money

That perception is incorrect.

The New York Times

Answer B is incorrect.

The New York Times

This claim is incorrect.

The Guardian

"Which is incorrect.

The New York Times

The suggestion is incorrect.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

He was incorrect.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and the level of formality when using "is incorrect". In some contexts, gentler alternatives like "is not quite right" or "needs clarification" might be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that something "is incorrect" without providing a reason or alternative. This can come across as dismissive and unhelpful. Always explain why the statement is wrong and provide the correct information.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is incorrect" functions as a predicate adjective, modifying a subject by asserting its lack of correctness. It serves to negate or contradict a preceding statement or assumption, as evidenced by Ludwig's confirmation of its grammatical correctness and numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "is incorrect" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to dispute the accuracy of a statement. As Ludwig AI indicates, its purpose is to correct or challenge information across diverse contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedias. While its neutral register makes it broadly applicable, careful writers should consider the audience and situation, choosing more sensitive alternatives when appropriate. Remember to support your assertions with explanations and evidence, avoiding simple declarations that something "is incorrect" without further clarification.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is not correct

Replaces "incorrect" with its direct synonym, "not correct", maintaining the same grammatical structure and meaning.

is inaccurate

Substitutes "incorrect" with "inaccurate", highlighting the lack of precision or truth in the statement.

is wrong

Uses a simpler and more direct synonym, "wrong", to indicate the statement's lack of correctness.

is erroneous

Replaces "incorrect" with the more formal synonym "erroneous", suggesting a mistake or error.

is false

Emphasizes the untruthful nature of the statement by using the word "false".

is not the case

Indicates that a statement or assumption is not true or valid.

is a mistake

Highlights the presence of an error in the statement by calling it "a mistake".

is a fallacy

Identifies the statement as a flawed or deceptive argument by using the word "fallacy".

is unfounded

Suggests that the statement lacks evidence or a solid basis.

is a misstatement

Uses a more formal term to indicate that a statement is not accurate or correct.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "is incorrect"?

You can use alternatives like "is not correct", "is inaccurate", or "is wrong" depending on the context.

How to use "is incorrect" in a sentence?

You can use "is incorrect" to point out a mistake or inaccuracy in a statement, for example, "The calculation in this report is incorrect."

What's the difference between "is incorrect" and "is false"?

"Is incorrect" generally means something contains errors or is inaccurate, while "is false" implies something is deliberately untrue or misleading. Although similar, "is false" carries a stronger connotation of deception.

When is it appropriate to use "is incorrect" instead of gentler alternatives?

Use "is incorrect" when accuracy is crucial and directness is valued, such as in scientific reports, legal documents, or technical manuals. In more informal or sensitive contexts, consider softer phrases like "is not quite right" or "needs some adjustment".