it is facile

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is facile" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is easily achieved or simplistic, often with a connotation of being overly simplistic or lacking depth. Example: "While the solution seems effective at first glance, it is facile and does not address the underlying issues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

It is facile.

The Guardian

It is facile to criticise Africa for not learning the lessons of history.

The Guardian

At the same time, it is facile to dismiss science itself.

The New Yorker

Given this, it is facile to blame China's problems on government intervention.

The Guardian - Business

Nonetheless it is facile charm, not just charm, that defines Mr. Wheeldon's ballet.

The New York Times - Arts

It is facile and mistaken to attribute this particular madman's act directly to Republicans or Tea Party members.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

It's facile, tawdry, and empty, while somehow also being morally pretentious.

The New Yorker

It's facile and too fashionable to resolve it all by simply calling "The Merchant of Venice" a dark comedy.

The New York Times

These are important issues; it's facile to dismiss opponents of the public plan as mere tools of industry.

The New York Times

It's facile to cast doctors as heroes or villains in the pitched battle over euthanasia because the truth is they are neither.

The Guardian - Opinion

It's facile and unhelpful to assume that government's role in journalism can be either nothing or absolute control for propaganda purposes.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To enhance clarity, follow "it is facile" with a specific explanation of why the subject is oversimplified. For example: "It is facile to blame the problem solely on funding; deeper systemic issues are also at play."

Common error

While grammatically correct, "it is facile" is relatively formal. Avoid using it in casual conversation or informal writing where simpler alternatives like "it's too simple" would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is facile" functions as an adjective phrase providing a subjective assessment. The adjective "facile" modifies an implied subject, indicating a judgment about the simplicity or superficiality of something. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Science

23%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is facile" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to critique something as being overly simplistic. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is often found in news and media contexts and is used to express disagreement or highlight a lack of depth in an argument or solution. Alternatives include "it is simplistic" or "it is superficial", but "it is facile" maintains a more formal register. Use it carefully, being mindful of its potentially negative connotation and ensuring the context warrants such a critique.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is simplistic

Replaces "facile" with a more common synonym, emphasizing the lack of complexity.

it is superficial

Indicates a lack of depth or thoroughness, similar to "facile".

it is glib

Suggests a smooth but insincere or shallow approach.

it is oversimplified

Directly states that something has been made too simple.

it is shallow

Implies a lack of intellectual or emotional depth.

it is skin-deep

Emphasizes that something only addresses the surface level.

it is facile to assume

Highlights the act of making an oversimplified assumption.

it is a simplistic view

Focuses on the perspective being too simple.

it is a naive approach

Suggests a lack of experience or understanding.

it is a cursory examination

Highlights the lack of thoroughness in the analysis.

FAQs

What does "it is facile" mean?

"It is facile" means something is overly simplistic, lacking depth, or easily achieved, often with a negative connotation. It suggests the approach doesn't consider all the complexities of a situation.

How can I use "it is facile" in a sentence?

You can use "it is facile" to critique an argument or solution. For example, "It is facile to assume that more funding will solve the problem without addressing systemic issues".

What are some alternatives to "it is facile"?

Alternatives include "it is simplistic", "it is superficial", or "it is glib" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "that is facile" instead of "it is facile"?

Yes, "that is facile" is also correct. Both phrases convey the same meaning: something is overly simplistic. The choice often depends on the specific context and what "that" refers to.