isn't enough

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "isn't enough" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
This phrase is typically used to express dissatisfaction with the amount or quantity of something. For example: "I only got five hours of sleep last night--it isn't enough."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That isn't enough, though.

The New Yorker

"Today, leverage isn't enough.

The New York Times

This isn't enough.

Independent

Being English isn't enough".

The New York Times - Arts

Talent alone isn't enough.

The New York Times

And taste isn't enough.

The New Yorker

It isn't enough.

The New York Times

But attraction isn't enough".

The New York Times

"Once isn't enough.

The New Yorker

Ignoring it isn't enough.

The New York Times

That isn't enough.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "isn't enough", ensure the context clearly defines what standard or requirement is not being met. This prevents ambiguity and strengthens the statement's impact.

Common error

Avoid using "isn't enough" in situations where a slight adjustment would suffice. Overstating the insufficiency can weaken your argument and make you sound unreasonable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "isn't enough" primarily functions as a predicate adjective, modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate a lack of sufficiency or adequacy. This is supported by Ludwig AI, which confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

86%

Formal & Business

7%

Science

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "isn't enough" is a grammatically correct and very common phrase used to express that something is insufficient or inadequate. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is typically used to express dissatisfaction. It appears most frequently in News & Media contexts, with neutral formality. For situations where a different tone or emphasis is desired, alternatives like "is insufficient", "is not adequate", or "falls short" can be used. When using "isn't enough", clarity is key: ensure the context clearly defines what standard is not being met. Overstating the insufficiency, however, can weaken your argument.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is simply not enough

Adds emphasis to the insufficiency, reinforcing the idea that more is needed.

is insufficient

Uses a more formal adjective to convey a lack of required quantity or quality.

is lacking

Emphasizes the absence of something necessary or desirable.

is not adequate

Replaces "enough" with "adequate", implying a failure to meet a specific need or requirement.

falls short

A more concise way of saying something doesn't reach a desired level or expectation.

is not satisfactory

Focuses on the failure to satisfy a particular purpose or requirement.

is not up to par

An idiomatic expression suggesting that something fails to meet an expected standard.

proves inadequate

Highlights that something has been tested or tried and found to be insufficient.

doesn't cut it

An informal idiom expressing that something is not good enough to achieve a goal.

leaves much to be desired

A more indirect way of expressing dissatisfaction, suggesting significant shortcomings.

FAQs

How can I use "isn't enough" in a sentence?

You can use "isn't enough" to express that something is insufficient to meet a specific need or achieve a desired outcome. For example, "Just apologizing "isn't enough"; action is required."

What are some alternatives to "isn't enough"?

Alternatives include "is insufficient", "is not adequate", or "falls short". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality desired. For example, "is insufficient" is more formal than "doesn't cut it".

Is it correct to say "aren't enough" instead of "isn't enough"?

"Aren't enough" is used with plural nouns, while "isn't enough" is used with singular nouns or uncountable nouns. For instance, "There aren't enough chairs for everyone" versus "There isn't enough space."

What's the difference between "isn't enough" and "is never enough"?

"Isn't enough" indicates a current deficiency, while "is never enough" suggests a perpetual state of inadequacy. The latter implies that no matter how much is provided, it will always be insufficient.