is not free

USAGE SUMMARY

"is not free" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You could use this phrase, for example, to refer to something that requires payment or a fee: "This online course is not free; it costs $50."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

It is not free.

The New York Times

The plan is not free.

The Economist

Besides, schooling is not free.

The Economist

"Tibet is not free!

The New York Times

"She is not free".

The New York Times

Freedom is not free!

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

It is not free-form or phantasmal.

The New York Times

SmugMug isn't free.

The New York Times

Breast milk isn't free.

The New York Times

And it isn't free.

The New York Times

The joy isn't free.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is not free", clarify what the cost entails, whether it's monetary, effort-based, or a potential risk. This provides clarity and context to your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "is not free" when you actually mean 'unrestricted' or 'unregulated'. "Free" often refers to monetary cost, so be precise with your word choice to prevent misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is not free" functions as a predicate adjective, modifying the subject by asserting that it lacks the attribute of being free. It indicates that a cost, obligation, or limitation is associated with the subject. Ludwig confirms the grammatical correctness and wide usage of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Science

28%

Science & Research

4%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is not free" is a common and grammatically sound way to indicate that something requires payment, effort, or has associated risks. As Ludwig AI confirms, the expression sees frequent use across diverse contexts such as news, science, and general media. When using the phrase, it's crucial to clarify the specific nature of the 'cost' involved. While alternatives like "comes at a cost" or "requires payment" exist, "is not free" provides a straightforward way to convey the presence of an obligation or limitation. Always consider the context to ensure accurate and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is subject to a fee

Replaces 'free' with 'subject to a fee', emphasizing the requirement of payment.

comes at a cost

Highlights that something, while perhaps appearing readily available, has associated expenses or consequences.

is not without charge

A more formal way of stating that a service or item requires payment.

is a paid service

Specifically indicates that a service requires a subscription or one-time payment.

involves an expense

Focuses on the monetary aspect, suggesting that resources are required.

carries a price tag

Emphasizes that something has a definite monetary value.

is not complimentary

States that an item or service is not offered without cost.

is restricted

Shifts focus from monetary cost to limitations or conditions.

has its drawbacks

Indicates that something has disadvantages or risks associated with it.

is not perfect

Emphasizes imperfections or limitations, rather than a direct cost.

FAQs

What does "is not free" mean?

The phrase "is not free" generally means that something requires payment, effort, or has associated risks. It indicates that there's a cost involved, whether tangible or intangible.

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

You can use "is not free" to indicate that something requires payment. For instance, "This app "is not free"; it requires a subscription."

What are some alternatives to saying "is not free"?

You can use alternatives like "comes at a cost", "requires payment", or "is subject to a fee" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "is not free" or "isn't free"?

Both "is not free" and "isn't free" are grammatically correct and acceptable. "Isn't free" is a contraction and is more informal than "is not free".