it is far from simple

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is far from simple" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is more complicated or difficult than it may appear at first glance. Example: "The process of applying for a visa is far from simple, as it involves numerous forms and requirements."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

It is far from simple to create an environment in which people can become more productive.

The Economist

The bond between mother and child may be primal, but it is far from simple.

The New York Times

Maintaining church buildings is a complicated task and the debate surrounding it is far from simple.

The Guardian - Opinion

It just can't make sense, but we have to live through it all anyway, and it is far from simple.

The Guardian - Books

The Marine Conservation Society's free Good Fish Guide app contains all the information you need, but it is far from simple.

The Guardian

In the face of such complexity, it is far from simple for the practitioner to feel convinced that a given therapy will indeed ensure improved health not to mention passing on this conviction to the patient, who is exposed to a wealth of medical information on the Internet and in the mass media.

Diabetes Care

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

It was far from simple, however; hence his accomplishment in organising threads of research into a coherent whole.

The Economist

The 34-year-old Agassi had a much more straightforward task in the fourth round against Johansson, 22, although it was far from simple.

The New York Times

They literally called around the world, talking to Romania, Hungary, China, Brazil, India, Pakistan and Turkey, but figured out that it was far from simple, legally and diplomatically, to give away an 80,000-pound, asbestos-spiked subway car.

The New York Times

From a practical point of view it's far from simple either - plenty of the bones involved are colossal in size and weight and cannot be easily moved if at all (they are big, but also fragile) so collecting the data can be a painful process.

The Guardian

It's put together from mostly off-the-shelf parts (Arduino -powered, naturally), though it's far from simple.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Employ this phrase to counter assumptions of ease or obviousness. It can set the stage for clarifying the complexities inherent in a particular situation or task.

Common error

Avoid using "it is far from simple" in situations where the complexity is already glaringly obvious. Such usage can appear redundant or even patronizing. Instead, focus on articulating the specific challenges or intricacies involved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is far from simple" serves as a qualifier, indicating that a given task, concept, or situation possesses complexities that might not be immediately apparent. Ludwig AI examples showcase its use in diverse contexts, from describing productivity to the bond between mother and child, underlining its versatility.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is far from simple" is a grammatically correct and versatile expression used to convey that something is more complex than it initially seems. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears across diverse contexts, especially in News & Media and Science, indicating its broad applicability. While relatively uncommon, it effectively sets the stage for a more nuanced explanation. When using this phrase, consider if the complexity is already apparent, and aim for clarity by specifying what aspects make it not simple. Alternatives like "it is quite complex" or "it is not straightforward" can offer similar meaning with slightly different emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is quite complex

This alternative uses "complex" to highlight the intricate nature of the subject.

it is not straightforward

This alternative emphasizes the lack of a direct or easy path.

it is rather complicated

This alternative uses "complicated" to suggest difficulty in understanding or dealing with something.

it is not a piece of cake

This idiom suggests that something requires significant effort and is not easily accomplished.

it is a challenge

This alternative highlights the difficulty and effort involved.

it is demanding

This alternative emphasizes the high requirements and effort needed.

it presents difficulties

This alternative highlights that something poses multiple problems and obstacles.

it requires careful consideration

This alternative emphasizes the need for deep thought and attention to detail.

it is an uphill battle

This idiom suggests a difficult and prolonged struggle.

it is a labyrinthine process

This alternative uses "labyrinthine" to highlight the convoluted and confusing nature of the process.

FAQs

How can I use "it is far from simple" in a sentence?

You can use "it is far from simple" to indicate that something is more complex or difficult than it initially appears. For example, "While the concept seems straightforward, the execution "it is far from simple"."

What are some alternatives to "it is far from simple"?

Alternatives include "it is quite complex", "it is not straightforward", or "it is rather complicated". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "it is far from simple" formal or informal?

"It is far from simple" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. While not overly colloquial, it's readily understood and accepted in a wide range of writing and speaking situations.

What's the difference between "it is far from simple" and "it is not simple"?

"It is far from simple" implies a greater degree of complexity than "it is not simple". The former suggests that something might appear simple on the surface but has hidden layers of difficulty, while the latter simply states that something isn't easy.