it is not a simple matter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is not a simple matter" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a topic or issue that is complex or requires careful consideration. Example: "When it comes to climate change, it is not a simple matter of just reducing emissions; we must also consider economic impacts and social justice."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

However, based on our preliminary assessment we argue that it is not a simple matter to develop integrated intelligence to its full potential as a result of certain technological challenges.

Journal of Cloud Computing: Advances, Systems and Applications

But it is not a simple matter of offering financial incentives or providing more child care.

The Economist

It is not a simple matter to define these capacities, but it is almost certainly harder to build them up in a population.

Columbia University

It is not a simple matter to obtain the agreement of Orthodox, Reform, Conservative and Reconstructionist rabbis on any single message.

The New York Times

In midsummer, it is not a simple matter to envision a winter flood if you are leaning on a boulder by a desiccated creek.

The New Yorker

He said it is not a simple matter: "Colour is a very, very complicated issue, there is no consistency of universal meaning in colour.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

"It's not a simple matter".

The New York Times

It was not a simple matter.

University of Pennsylvania

"It's not a simple matter of recapitalising the banks.

The Economist

It's not a simple matter to expand mass transit.

The New York Times

It's not a simple matter of rich and poor.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Employ this phrase when transitioning from a simplistic view to a more comprehensive analysis of a subject. It helps to set the stage for a more detailed explanation.

Common error

Avoid immediately following the statement "it is not a simple matter" with a simplistic solution or recommendation. Doing so undermines the initial acknowledgment of complexity and confuses the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is not a simple matter" functions as an introductory phrase or transitional statement. It sets the stage for explaining why a particular situation or problem is more complex than it initially appears. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

33%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is not a simple matter" serves as a valuable tool for introducing complexity and nuance into discussions. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and finds application across diverse fields like news, science, and academia. While categorized as having a neutral to formal register, its primary function is to discourage oversimplified thinking. The examples provided by Ludwig underscore the phrase's utility in prompting thorough analysis, signaling to the reader that the topic at hand requires deeper consideration than might initially be apparent.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it's more complicated than that

Highlights the added layers of difficulty and intricacies involved.

it's not as easy as it seems

Emphasizes that the apparent simplicity is deceptive.

it involves several complexities

Directly points out that there exist multiple complex elements.

it's a multifaceted issue

Indicates that the issue has many aspects and is not straightforward.

it presents significant challenges

Focuses on the difficulties and obstacles encountered.

it requires careful consideration

Underlines the necessity of thorough and thoughtful analysis.

it's a complex undertaking

Highlights that the activity requires significant effort and has many steps.

it's a thorny problem

Uses a metaphor to suggest a difficult and potentially troublesome issue.

it's far from straightforward

Directly states that the situation is not simple or easy to understand.

it's a tricky situation

Indicates a delicate or problematic situation requiring caution.

FAQs

How can I use "it is not a simple matter" in a sentence?

You can use "it is not a simple matter" to introduce a topic that requires careful consideration or has multiple facets. For example, "When it comes to climate change, "it is not a simple matter" of just reducing emissions; we must also consider economic impacts and social justice."

What can I say instead of "it is not a simple matter"?

You can use alternatives like "it is more complicated than that", "it is a complex issue", or "it is not straightforward" depending on the context.

Is "it is not a simple matter" formal or informal?

"It is not a simple matter" is generally considered neutral to formal. While suitable for academic and professional settings, it may be perceived as overly formal in casual conversation. Consider using a more relaxed phrase like "it's not that simple" in informal contexts.

What's the difference between "it is not a simple matter" and "it is not simple"?

"It is not a simple matter" emphasizes that the issue involves multiple factors or complexities, whereas "it is not simple" is a more direct statement that something is difficult or challenging. The former is generally used when introducing a nuanced discussion, while the latter is a more straightforward expression of difficulty.