it is insufficient

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is insufficient" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something does not meet the required standard or amount. Example: "The evidence provided in the report is insufficient to support the claims made by the author."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Technology can be a powerful enabler, but it is insufficient on its own to create a broad cultural shift.

Nurse Leader

But it is insufficient on its own.

Huffington Post

But for all the reasons indicated above, it is insufficient on its own.

BMJ Quality and Safety

While the pilot testing in 8 patients provided us with important information, it is insufficient for claiming its widespread use.

BMC Medical Informatics and Decision Making

It is insufficient.

The New York Times

"It is insufficient," he said.

The New York Times

It is insufficient on two grounds.

The Economist

More testing and analysis would help, but it is insufficient.

The New York Times

His pledge to end this assistance is an important start, but it is insufficient.

The New York Times

Aid is immensely important — it is just that it is insufficient.

The Guardian

But it is insufficient just say this: the commission must also do something.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it is insufficient", consider adding a "why" or "for what reason" to provide context and clarity. For example, "The data is insufficient to draw a conclusion."

Common error

Avoid using overly dramatic language when stating that something is insufficient. Instead of saying "it is woefully insufficient", simply state "it is insufficient" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is insufficient" primarily functions as a judgment or assessment, indicating that something does not meet the required standard or quantity. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely applicable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

45%

News & Media

39%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is insufficient" is a versatile phrase used to express that something does not meet the necessary requirements or standards. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts. The primary contexts include science and news media. When writing, ensure you provide context by explaining why something is insufficient and avoid overly dramatic language. Alternatives include "it is inadequate" and "it is not enough". This phrase appears frequently in authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is inadequate

Replaces "insufficient" with a direct synonym, "inadequate", maintaining the original structure and meaning.

it is not enough

Emphasizes the lack of sufficiency using a more common and straightforward expression.

it is deficient

Replaces "insufficient" with "deficient", highlighting a lack or shortage in some essential quality or element.

it is lacking

Focuses on the absence of something needed, implying a deficiency.

it falls short

Indicates a failure to reach a required or expected standard.

it is wanting

Highlights a deficiency or lack, often in a formal or literary context.

it's not up to par

Uses an idiomatic expression to convey that something does not meet the required level or standard.

it's not up to snuff

Uses a less formal, idiomatic phrase to indicate that something is not good enough.

it doesn't cut it

Employs a colloquial expression to suggest that something is not adequate or effective.

it is barely adequate

Emphasizes that something is only just sufficient, implying that it is almost inadequate.

FAQs

What does "it is insufficient" mean?

The phrase "it is insufficient" means that something is not enough or does not meet the required standard or amount. It indicates a lack of adequacy for a specific purpose.

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

You can use "it is insufficient" to express that something falls short of what is needed. For example, "The information provided "is insufficient" to make a decision."

What are some alternatives to "it is insufficient"?

You can use alternatives like "it is inadequate", "it is not enough", or "it is lacking" depending on the context.

Is "it is insufficient" formal or informal?

"It is insufficient" is generally considered a neutral to formal phrase. While suitable for academic or professional writing, you might prefer a more informal alternative like "it doesn't cut it" in casual conversation.