is not play

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is not play" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something does not involve play or is not playful in nature. Example: "This situation is serious; it is not play."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

"I think all you can do is not play," she said.

Independent

However, they need to be aware that it is not play time or time to visit the parents.

WikiHow

That is what we hope to do in this column -- regird, that is, not play football.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

"Brady is not playing well".

The New York Times - Sports

Kaymer is not playing this week.

The New York Times - Sports

He is not playing around!

The New York Times

"Jayson is not playing.

The New York Times - Sports

He is not playing against Alexander.

The New Yorker

One Barbadian, however, is not playing along.

The New York Times

Yet RealNetworks is not playing defence.

The Economist

Their opponent is not playing any better.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is not play", ensure the context clearly establishes what is being contrasted with play, typically highlighting seriousness or importance. For clarity, follow it with a concrete example of what it entails in the context.

Common error

Avoid using "is not play" when a simpler, more direct statement of seriousness would suffice. Overusing the phrase can dilute its impact, consider stronger alternatives like "is critical" or "is vital".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is not play" functions as a predicate nominative, renaming or defining the subject. Ludwig confirms its usability. It serves to emphasize that a situation or action is serious and should not be treated lightly.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is not play" is a grammatically correct expression used to emphasize the seriousness of a situation. Ludwig confirms its usability. It serves to communicate that a particular matter should not be taken lightly. Though relatively rare, the phrase appears in various contexts, particularly in news and media. For alternative expressions, consider "is not a game" or "is not for fun", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is not a game

Emphasizes the lack of lightheartedness or amusement, highlighting a serious situation.

is not for fun

Directly states that something lacks entertainment value and is intended for serious purposes.

is not kidding

Highlights the sincerity and earnestness of a statement or action.

is not joking

Similar to "is not kidding", indicating a serious and sincere demeanor.

is not trifling

Conveys that something is significant and should not be taken lightly.

is not messing around

Suggests a determined and purposeful approach, devoid of frivolous actions.

is not child's play

Indicates that something is difficult or challenging, not suitable for inexperienced individuals.

is not a laughing matter

Stresses the gravity of a situation and discourages humor or levity.

is not a trivial matter

Underscores the importance and significance of a particular issue.

is not something to play with

Highlights the potential danger or sensitivity of a topic or object.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "is not play"?

The phrase "is not play" is appropriate when you want to emphasize the serious or non-frivolous nature of a situation, contrasting it with something that might be perceived as lighthearted or trivial. It's often used to highlight the importance or potential consequences of something.

What can I say instead of "is not play" to convey a similar meaning?

You can use alternatives like "is not a game", "is not for fun", or "is not kidding" depending on the specific context.

How can I use "is not play" in a sentence effectively?

To use "is not play" effectively, ensure that the context makes it clear what is being contrasted with playfulness. For example, "This negotiation is serious; it is not play." This emphasizes the importance and potential consequences of the negotiation.

Is "is not play" formal or informal?

The phrase "is not play" is generally considered neutral and is acceptable in both formal and informal contexts, although more formal alternatives might be preferred in strictly professional settings, consider using alternatives such as "is not a trivial matter".