is not special

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is not special" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something does not have unique or distinguishing qualities. Example: "This event is not special; it happens every year without fail."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Georgia is not special.

The New York Times

"Sushi is not special".

The New York Times

That in itself is not special.

The New York Times

The railway is not special.

The Guardian

"Securitization is not special in that.

The New York Times

Obama is not special in this regard.

The Washington Post

This pattern is not special to the Yankees' move.

The New York Times

Ronaldo said, "I'm not saying that sex is not special".

The New York Times - Sports

But this is not special pleading by Riba.

The Guardian - Opinion

This feminism is not special pleading, or even partisan.

The Guardian - Opinion

"He is not special by any stretch of the imagination.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is not special" to counter assumptions of uniqueness or exceptionalism, promoting a more realistic or grounded perspective.

Common error

Avoid using "is not special" excessively when trying to connect with an audience. Overusing this phrase can come across as dismissive or diminishing, potentially undermining the intended message of relatability. Instead, strive for a balanced approach that acknowledges both shared experiences and individual uniqueness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is not special" primarily functions as a predicate adjective, modifying a subject by indicating a lack of unique or exceptional qualities. As supported by Ludwig AI, the expression is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

2%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is not special" serves to denote a lack of uniqueness or exceptional qualities. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. Predominantly found in News & Media and Scientific contexts, this phrase is used to manage expectations or provide a grounded perspective. While versatile, it's advisable to avoid overuse to prevent undermining the intended message. Alternatives such as "is not unique" or "is commonplace" can offer nuanced ways to express similar sentiments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is not unique

Directly states the absence of uniqueness.

is not extraordinary

Similar to "is not exceptional" but can imply a greater degree of normality.

is not exceptional

Highlights the absence of outstanding qualities.

is unremarkable

Highlights the absence of features that would make it stand out.

is nothing out of the ordinary

Emphasizes the lack of unusual or remarkable qualities.

is pretty typical

Indicates that something is in line with what is usually expected.

is commonplace

Focuses on the commonness and lack of rarity.

is fairly standard

Implies conformity to a common standard or norm.

is like anything else

Stresses the lack of difference compared to other things.

is run-of-the-mill

Suggests ordinariness and a lack of distinction from others of its kind.

FAQs

What does it mean when something "is not special"?

When something "is not special", it means it lacks unique or distinguishing qualities; it's ordinary or commonplace.

What can I say instead of "is not special"?

You can use alternatives like "is not unique", "is commonplace", or "is ordinary" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say something "is not special"?

Yes, the phrase "is not special" is grammatically correct and widely used in English. It follows standard sentence structure.

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

You can use "is not special" to express that something lacks unique qualities or significance. For example, "This event "is not special"; it happens every year."