it doesn't follow that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'it doesn't follow that' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to express that one conclusion does not necessarily lead to another. For example, "Just because she passed the test doesn't mean she has learned the material; it doesn't follow that she can apply it in real-world situations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It doesn't follow that story at all," Mr. Martin said.

The New York Times

"It doesn't follow that messing up football will make it sexy in America".

The New York Times - Sports

Sure, you lost your job; but it doesn't follow that everything will be awful forever.

The Guardian

It doesn't follow that because you are a good comedy writer, you're a happy fellow.

The Guardian

It doesn't follow that drinking two bottles will solve every problem.

The Guardian - Opinion

But it doesn't follow that Austin therefore has a brilliant approach to fighting homelessness or helping the homeless.

The Economist

There is a lot wrong with fashion, we can all agree on that, but it doesn't follow that everyone involved is to blame.

Independent

The Bruins are goons and the Bruins won the Cup, but it doesn't follow that goons are needed to win the Cup.

The New Yorker

Balls acknowledges it is an issue for Labour that the financial crisis happened on their watch, but it doesn't follow that everything Labour did was bad.

The Guardian

But it doesn't follow that Mr Browne should be replaced by one of those green-ink cranks who make public life so interesting.

The Guardian

It's admirable that you were willing to help a friend and lamentable that you were robbed, but it doesn't follow that your friend must make up any of the stolen money.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it doesn't follow that", ensure that the two statements you're connecting are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "it doesn't follow that" in situations where the connection is so obviously illogical that stating the disconnect becomes redundant and comical, rather than insightful. This can dilute the phrase's impact when used appropriately.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it doesn't follow that" functions as a causal connector, used to negate an implied cause-and-effect relationship or logical consequence. It explicitly denies that one statement or fact necessarily leads to another. According to Ludwig, this phrase is commonly used and grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Reference

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it doesn't follow that" is a versatile phrase used to dispute assumptions or inferences by explicitly denying a logical connection between two statements. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage, showing that it functions as a causal connector applicable across diverse contexts. Analysis of its usage patterns reveals a strong presence in news, media, and scientific writing, reflecting its role in reasoned arguments and critical analysis. When employing this phrase, be sure to use it in context to point out differences between ideas or facts for clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it does not necessarily imply

Changes the wording to emphasize a lack of implication rather than a lack of following.

that is not necessarily the case

Shifts the focus to the possibility of the opposite being true.

it is not a logical consequence

Emphasizes the lack of a logical connection between two statements.

that does not automatically mean

Highlights that one event doesn't guarantee another.

it cannot be inferred

Focuses on the impossibility of drawing a conclusion.

it does not ensure that

Highlights the absence of a guarantee of a specific outcome.

it is not a given that

Expresses that something is not certain or predetermined.

there's no guarantee that

Indicates uncertainty about a particular outcome.

it is not a sure thing

Informal way to express uncertainty.

this does not equate to

Emphasizes that two things are not equivalent.

FAQs

How can I use "it doesn't follow that" in a sentence?

You can use "it doesn't follow that" to show a disconnect between two ideas. For example, "Just because he's wealthy, "it doesn't follow that" he's happy."

What are some alternatives to "it doesn't follow that"?

Alternatives include "it does not necessarily imply", "that is not necessarily the case", or "it is not a logical consequence", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it ever incorrect to use "it doesn't follow that"?

While grammatically correct, using "it doesn't follow that" can be inappropriate if the relationship between the two ideas is already obviously disconnected or absurd. It's most effective when addressing potential but ultimately unfounded assumptions.

What's the difference between "it doesn't follow that" and "it's unrelated"?

"It doesn't follow that" implies a potential but ultimately nonexistent logical connection, while "it's unrelated" suggests there was never any plausible connection to begin with. The former is used to dispel assumptions, the latter to highlight irrelevance.