is just

USAGE SUMMARY

'is just' is a valid phrase to use in written English.
It can be used to emphasize the immediacy of an event or situation. For example, "The alarm is just about to go off."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This is just art.

The New Yorker

"This is just unbelievable.

Independent

"It is just intimidating.

The New York Times

This is just frustrating".

The New York Times

"He is just good".

The New York Times - Sports

It is just us".

The New York Times

Everything is just positioning".

The New York Times - Books

This is just pressure".

The New York Times - Food

It is just theater.

The New York Times

It is just blackmail".

The New York Times

"Cyberbullying" is just bullying.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is just" to provide a simple explanation or express a straightforward opinion without unnecessary complexity.

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on "is just" in formal or academic writing, as it can sometimes sound dismissive or simplistic. Consider using more precise or nuanced language to convey your meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is just" primarily functions as a copular verb phrase used to equate or describe a subject with a certain quality or state. It emphasizes a straightforward or simple explanation, as seen in Ludwig's examples where something "is just art" or "is just pressure".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

14%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is just" serves as a common way to simplify explanations or express straightforward opinions. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a valid and grammatically correct phrase. While highly prevalent in "News & Media", it may not always be appropriate for formal writing. Consider alternatives such as "simply is" or "merely is" in more formal contexts. When using "is just", make sure it does not come across as dismissive or overly simplistic.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

simply is

Emphasizes the simplicity or straightforwardness of a situation.

merely is

Highlights the limited or insignificant nature of something.

only is

Indicates that something is the sole or exclusive factor.

plainly is

Focuses on the clarity and obviousness of a fact.

purely is

Stresses the unmixed and unadulterated quality of something.

fundamentally is

Underlines the basic or essential nature of something.

basically is

Indicates the essential or underlying nature of something, often simplifying a more complex situation.

essentially is

Similar to 'basically is' but may imply a deeper, more inherent quality.

in reality is

Highlights the actual state of affairs, often contrasting with a perceived or expected state.

in essence is

Captures the core or central meaning of something, stripping away extraneous details.

FAQs

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

You can use "is just" to express a simple explanation or opinion, such as, "This "is just a matter of time"" or "That "is just my opinion"".

What are some alternatives to "is just"?

Alternatives include phrases like "simply is", "merely is", or "only is" depending on the context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "is just" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "is just" may sound too simplistic or informal for academic or professional writing. Consider using more precise language.

What's the difference between "is just" and "simply is"?

Both phrases can be used to express simplicity, but "simply is" often emphasizes the straightforward nature of something, while "is just" can sometimes imply a degree of dismissiveness or triviality depending on context.