is not forthcoming

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'is not forthcoming' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone's lack of cooperative or helpful behavior, or when information is not being shared. For example, "When I asked my colleague for assistance, an answer was not forthcoming."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

He is not forthcoming, and she is suspicious.

The New Yorker

Evidently, demand is there, but the supply is not forthcoming.

The Guardian - Money

It took place last summer; it is not forthcoming.

The New York Times

Where it is not forthcoming, it must be coerced.

The New Yorker

But there is the market for amateur footballers is limited, and so payment is not forthcoming.

The Economist

Even when help is not forthcoming, the airline Twitter accounts serve as a news source.

The New York Times

They may find the locals exasperate easily if an early advantage is not forthcoming.

The Guardian - Sport

"Since Jon Corzine is not forthcoming about those business dealings, we will be," Mr. Lanard said.

The New York Times

If Mrs. Clinton is not forthcoming on this, her image will be hurt with swing voters.

The New York Times

Rodriguez, however, could face discipline if the commissioner's office feels he is not forthcoming or truthful.

The New York Times - Sports

He is not forthcoming ("I don't want to talk about that").

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is not forthcoming" when you want to express that something expected or needed is not being provided or shared. This can apply to information, assistance, or any form of support.

Common error

Avoid using "is not forthcoming" when you simply mean something is absent or unavailable. The phrase often implies a withholding of something that should be provided, rather than a mere lack of availability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is not forthcoming" primarily functions as a predicate adjective, describing a noun (person, thing, or situation) that is failing to provide something expected or needed. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and serves a clear communicative function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is not forthcoming" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to indicate a lack of expected delivery or disclosure. As Ludwig AI confirms, it functions as a predicate adjective and often implies an element of unwillingness or obstruction. Predominantly found in news and media, scientific publications, and formal business contexts, the phrase is suitable for neutral to formal communication. When using "is not forthcoming", ensure you are not simply describing absence, but rather a withholding of something expected. Consider alternatives like "is not available" or "is being withheld" to fine-tune the nuance of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is not available

Indicates a simple lack of availability, without implying intent.

is being withheld

Emphasizes a deliberate act of keeping something back.

is refusing to disclose

Highlights a refusal to reveal or share something.

is being uncooperative

Specifically describes a person's unwillingness to assist or provide information.

is remaining silent

Focuses on the lack of verbal response or information.

is evading the question

Suggests an attempt to avoid directly answering a question.

is not volunteering

Indicates a lack of initiative in providing something.

is dodging the issue

Implies an attempt to avoid addressing a particular problem or concern.

is being secretive

Highlights the act of maintaining secrecy or concealment.

is keeping mum

Informal way of saying someone is remaining silent or not divulging information.

FAQs

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

You can use "is not forthcoming" to indicate that something expected, like information or assistance, is not being provided. For example, "Despite repeated requests, information about the project's budget "is not forthcoming"".

What are some alternatives to "is not forthcoming"?

Alternatives include "is not available", "is being withheld", or "is uncooperative", depending on the context. Each alternative carries a slightly different nuance.

Is it appropriate to use "is not forthcoming" in formal writing?

Yes, "is not forthcoming" is suitable for formal writing. It is frequently found in news reports, academic papers, and business communications. However, consider the specific context and audience to ensure it's the most appropriate choice.

What does "is not forthcoming" imply about the situation?

The phrase "is not forthcoming" often implies that there is an expectation or need for something to be provided, and the failure to do so might be intentional or indicative of a problem. It suggests more than simple absence; it suggests a withholding.