Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
is thinly substantiated
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "is thinly substantiated" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a claim or argument that lacks strong evidence or support. Example: "The theory presented in the article is thinly substantiated, relying on anecdotal evidence rather than rigorous research."
✓ Grammatically correct
Alternative expressions(2)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
60 human-written examples
But her contempt is thinly disguised.
News & Media
Even the excellent "Baltic Reports" website is thinly stocked.
News & Media
Syria's army, moreover, is thinly spread, tired and demoralised.
News & Media
The broccoli is thinly sliced and steamed or blanched separately.
News & Media
It is thinly veiled social Darwinism," Mr. Obama said.
News & Media
It is thinly veiled social Darwinism.
News & Media
The store is thinly stocked.
News & Media
Make sure it is thinly and evenly sliced.
Wiki
It was thinly overcast.
News & Media
Talent risks being thinly spread.
News & Media
Yet its demonstrations have been thinly attended.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using the phrase "is thinly substantiated", ensure that you provide context or examples to illustrate the weakness of the supporting evidence. This adds clarity and strengthens your argument by showing, not just telling, the deficiency.
Common error
Avoid using "is thinly substantiated" when there is absolutely no evidence. The phrase implies some minimal level of support, so it's more accurate when there are hints or suggestions, but not solid proof. If there is no support at all, use "is unsubstantiated".
Source & Trust
60%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "is thinly substantiated" functions as a descriptive qualifier, indicating that a claim, theory, or argument has minimal evidentiary support. It suggests the presence of some evidence, but that it is insufficient to fully validate the idea. Ludwig AI confirms this usage.
Frequent in
Science
0%
News & Media
0%
Formal & Business
0%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
0%
Wiki
0%
Social Media
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "is thinly substantiated" is a grammatically correct way to describe claims or ideas that lack solid proof. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appropriately describes the state of having only minimal evidence. While its frequency is currently missing from our data, related phrases such as "is weakly supported" or "lacks strong evidence" offer similar meaning. When using this phrase, ensure that you clarify the specific weaknesses in the substantiating evidence to enhance your writing's clarity and persuasive power.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
is unsubstantiated
A more direct statement of lacking substantiation.
is weakly supported
Replaces 'thinly substantiated' with a direct synonym for weak support.
lacks strong evidence
Focuses on the absence of robust evidence.
has limited backing
Highlights the scarcity of support.
is poorly corroborated
Highlights the lack of independent verification.
is barely justified
Implies a minimal level of justification.
is scarcely validated
Emphasizes minimal confirmation of the claim.
is scantily proven
Focuses on the lack of comprehensive proof.
is feebly demonstrated
Focuses on the weak level of demonstration.
rests on shaky ground
Emphasizes the instability of the basis for the claim.
FAQs
How can I use "is thinly substantiated" in a sentence?
You can use "is thinly substantiated" to describe a claim or theory that lacks strong evidence. For example: "The hypothesis that exercise prevents cancer /s/is+thinly+substantiated, with only a few studies showing a correlation".
What's a good alternative to "is thinly substantiated"?
Alternatives include "is weakly supported", "lacks strong evidence", or "is poorly corroborated", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.
Is it better to say 'is thinly substantiated' or 'is unsubstantiated'?
"Is thinly substantiated" implies that there is some minimal level of evidence, whereas "is unsubstantiated" means there is no evidence at all. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the situation.
Can 'is thinly substantiated' be used in formal writing?
Yes, "is thinly substantiated" is appropriate for formal writing. However, ensure that you provide enough context and explanation to support your assessment of the claim or theory in question. Consider using stronger synonyms like "is poorly supported" if you want to be more direct.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
60%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested