is not saying

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is not saying" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone is not making a statement or expressing a particular idea or opinion. Example: "The report is not saying that the project is a failure, but rather that improvements are needed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He is not saying.

The Economist

The firm is not saying.

The Economist

This is not saying much".

The New York Times

But that is not saying much.

The New York Times

Until then, he is not saying anything.

The New York Times - Sports

But that is not saying very much.

The Economist

Grayling is not saying that.

The Guardian - Business

Clegg agrees he is not saying that.

The Guardian

That is not saying a lot.

The Guardian - Opinion

The government is not saying anything.

The New York Times

That is not saying much yet.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is not saying" when you want to indicate a deliberate choice to withhold information or a lack of communication on a specific matter. It's suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "is not saying" excessively in situations where a more direct and active voice would be clearer and more impactful. For instance, instead of "The reason is not being said", try "They are not revealing the reason".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is not saying" functions as a verb phrase in the present continuous tense, negated. It typically indicates that a subject is actively choosing to withhold information or is refraining from making a statement. This aligns with Ludwig's confirmation that it is correctly used in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Academia

10%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is not saying" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to indicate that someone is choosing not to disclose information. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and wide applicability. It is frequently encountered in news and media, reflecting its utility in reporting situations where individuals or organizations decline to comment. While adaptable to various registers, it is most commonly found in neutral and professional contexts. For alternative phrasing, consider options such as "is declining to comment" or "is remaining silent", depending on the desired nuance and level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is remaining silent

This alternative focuses on the act of choosing not to speak, emphasizing the silence itself.

is declining to comment

This phrase is often used in journalistic contexts to indicate a formal refusal to provide information.

is not elaborating

Indicates a lack of detail or further explanation on a particular topic.

is not disclosing

This option focuses on the act of not revealing information that one might otherwise share.

is unwilling to reveal

Highlights reluctance to disclose something, indicating possible sensitivity or secrecy.

is keeping mum

This option is more informal, suggesting a deliberate withholding of information.

is holding back information

This phrase suggests that someone possesses information but is intentionally preventing it from being known.

is being tight-lipped

A more colorful way to describe someone who is very secretive and refuses to talk.

is refraining from stating

This is a more formal and emphatic way of saying that someone is choosing not to express something.

is evading the question

Suggests avoidance, implying that a direct answer is being deliberately sidestepped.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "is not saying" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "is declining to comment", "is refraining from stating", or "is unwilling to reveal".

What's a more casual way to say "is not saying"?

Informal alternatives include "is keeping mum" or "is being tight-lipped", which add a more colorful and conversational tone.

Is "is not saying" grammatically correct?

Yes, "is not saying" is grammatically correct and commonly used. It follows the standard structure of a present continuous negative statement. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is usable in written English.

When should I use "is not saying" versus "is not telling"?

"Is not saying" generally implies a broader withholding of information or a lack of communication. "Is not telling" specifically suggests a refusal to share information with a particular person or group. Depending on the context, either could be appropriate.