is not deep

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is not deep" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that lacks depth, whether literally (like water) or metaphorically (like a conversation or thought). Example: "The discussion we had last night is not deep; it barely scratched the surface of the topic."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

"The squad is not deep enough".

Independent

When the Giants do pass, it is not deep.

The New York Times - Sports

It's undeniably attractive but the spell it casts is not deep.

Independent

Her costume is as telling as her gaze, which is not deep.

The New Yorker

The Borrelly encounter is not Deep Space 1's only attempt at some supplemental science.

The New York Times - Science

The list is not deep, but it's wide, and it's entertaining.

The New York Times - Food

Mr. Wesselmann's unassuming hedonism is not deep but it is seductive.

The New York Times - Arts

If the skin is not deep brown, pop the dish under the grill and gently colour and crisp the skin.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

It is not deep-rooted.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Yet, DEMOCRACY is not deep-rooted ; or better, it is rooted in an uneven manner.

Huffington Post

Among the plethora of options at Thanksgiving, skinless turkey meat is a safe bet -- as long as it is not deep-fried.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is not deep" to describe an abstract concept, ensure that the context clearly establishes what kind of depth is lacking, such as emotional, intellectual, or physical depth.

Common error

Avoid using "is not deep" in contexts where "is shallow" would be more appropriate. "Shallow" often implies a negative judgment, whereas "is not deep" can be more neutral, simply describing a lack of depth without necessarily criticizing it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is not deep" functions as a descriptive statement, indicating a lack of depth, either literally or figuratively. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in English. Examples from Ludwig show it used to describe the lack of depth in arguments, water, or analysis.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

24%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is not deep" is a common and grammatically correct way to express a lack of depth, whether in a literal or figurative sense. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread use. Predominantly found in News & Media and Science contexts, the phrase serves to describe something lacking profundity, thoroughness, or complexity. Alternatives include "lacks depth", "is shallow", and "is superficial", with the choice depending on the desired nuance. When using the phrase, ensure the context clearly defines the kind of depth being discussed and be mindful of the potentially negative connotations associated with terms like "shallow".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lacks depth

Emphasizes the absence of depth in a more direct way.

is shallow

Highlights the superficial nature of something.

is superficial

Focuses on the surface level aspect, lacking substance.

is not profound

Directly negates the quality of being profound or insightful.

is skin deep

Suggests that something only affects the surface and doesn't penetrate further.

is cursory

Indicates that something is done quickly and without much attention to detail.

does not delve deeply

Emphasizes a failure to explore something thoroughly.

is simplistic

Points out the oversimplified nature of something.

is not in-depth

Specifies the absence of thoroughness or detail.

is perfunctory

Suggests a lack of enthusiasm or effort.

FAQs

What does it mean when something "is not deep"?

When something "is not deep", it means it lacks complexity, profundity, or thoroughness. It can refer to a physical dimension, like water level, or to abstract qualities like emotions or thoughts. Consider using "is shallow" or "lacks depth" as alternative ways to convey a similar idea.

How can I use "is not deep" in a sentence?

You can use "is not deep" to describe anything that lacks depth, whether literally or figuratively. For example, "The water is not deep enough to dive" or "The analysis is not deep enough to draw meaningful conclusions". Consider the context to determine if alternatives like "is superficial" might be more suitable.

What are some synonyms for "is not deep"?

Synonyms for "is not deep" include "is shallow", "lacks depth", "is superficial", and "is not profound". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

In what situations is it better to use "is not deep" instead of "is shallow"?

"Is not deep" is generally more neutral and descriptive, simply stating a lack of depth. "Is shallow" often carries a negative connotation, implying a lack of substance or importance. Use "is not deep" when you want to describe a lack of depth without necessarily criticizing it; use "is shallow" when you want to convey a negative judgment. Think about alternative such as "is cursory" or "does not delve deeply".