is not perfect

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is not perfect" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that has flaws or is not entirely satisfactory. Example: "The design of the product is not perfect, but it meets the basic requirements."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

It is not perfect.

The Economist

"Everyone is not perfect.

Independent

Everything is not perfect.

The New York Times - Magazine

That proposal is not perfect.

The New York Times

The bill is not perfect.

The New York Times

The study is not perfect.

The New York Times - Health

The BookStand is not perfect.

The New York Times - Tech

"A Garden" is not perfect.

The New Yorker

No, it is not perfect.

The New York Times

The video is not perfect.

The New York Times

Certainly QAA is not perfect.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is not perfect" to offer a balanced assessment, acknowledging both strengths and weaknesses. For example, "The theory is not perfect, but it offers a valuable framework for understanding the phenomenon."

Common error

Avoid using "is not perfect" excessively in a single piece of writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "has shortcomings" or "is flawed" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is not perfect" functions as a descriptive expression used to temper expectations or provide a balanced assessment. As Ludwig AI suggests, it acknowledges the existence of imperfections or limitations, indicating that something falls short of an ideal state. This phrase can be applied to a wide range of subjects, from abstract concepts to tangible objects.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Academia

6%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is not perfect" is a common and versatile expression used to acknowledge limitations while maintaining a balanced perspective. As noted by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Scientific writing. While "is flawed" or "has shortcomings" offer similar meanings, "is not perfect" often provides a gentler way to point out imperfections. Remember to vary your language to avoid overuse and maintain reader engagement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is imperfect

A direct synonym, stressing the lack of perfection.

is flawed

Emphasizes the presence of a defect or weakness.

has shortcomings

Highlights the existence of deficiencies or limitations.

is less than ideal

Suggests a deviation from an optimal condition.

is not without its faults

Acknowledges imperfections while suggesting some positive aspects may exist.

has room for improvement

Similar to "could be improved", but emphasizes the possibility of further development.

is not quite right

Implies a subtle but noticeable imperfection.

could be improved

Focuses on the potential for enhancement.

is not up to par

Suggests that something doesn't reach the average or expected standard.

leaves something to be desired

Indicates that the subject is adequate but could be better.

FAQs

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

You can use "is not perfect" to politely point out flaws or limitations in something. For example: "The solution "is not perfect", but it's the best we have right now."

What phrases are similar to "is not perfect"?

Alternatives include "is flawed", "has shortcomings", or "is imperfect", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What is the difference between "is not perfect" and "is flawed"?

"Is not perfect" is a gentler way of pointing out issues. "Is flawed" suggests a more significant defect or problem.

When is it appropriate to use "is not perfect"?

Use "is not perfect" when you want to acknowledge limitations without being overly critical. It's suitable for situations where something has both positive and negative aspects.