it is not binding

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is not binding" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in legal or formal contexts to indicate that an agreement or statement does not have legal force or obligation. Example: "The memorandum of understanding is a preliminary document, and it is not binding until both parties sign the final contract."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

By law, the resolution can only be used to guide the board - it is not binding.

The Guardian - Business

Mr. Lugar's resolution also laid out a commitment to modernize the nation's nuclear weapons complex, a top Republican priority, although it is not binding.

The New York Times

There should be a reluctance to consider the applicability of Article 75 of Protocol I, since America never signed it and thus it is not binding.

Wikipedia

Section 5, it is not binding on Congress or the Elections Canvassing Commission.

The New York Times

It is not binding in a court of law," he said.

The Guardian

It is not binding on the government, but the Liberal and Labour parties say they will now push for speedy implementation of the motion.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

It keeps everyone on the same page, but it isn't binding.

Forbes

Howard said Whiting told Brawn about the FIA's legal position but added that it was not binding.

BBC

The shareholder rejection of his pay plan, which included a $40 million retention bonus, was an embarrassment, but it was not binding.

Huffington Post

2) It isn't binding in any way.

Huffington Post

While it isn't binding precedent, Scalia's opinion is a fascinating window on his exasperation at the tendency of liberal jurists to discern (or invent) rights that aren't explicitly guaranteed in the Constitution.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it is not binding", clearly state what the subject is and why it lacks a binding effect. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid assuming that something that "it is not binding" is unimportant or can be ignored. While it may not be legally enforceable, it could still carry significant weight, such as moral or ethical implications.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is not binding" functions as a predicate adjective phrase. It describes a subject, indicating that the subject does not impose any legal or compulsory obligation. As indicated by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

20%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is not binding" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that serves to clarify the non-compulsory nature of an agreement, rule, or decision. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is appropriate for use in formal contexts. While "it is not binding" indicates a lack of legal or obligatory force, it's important to consider if what "it is not binding" still carries significant weight in some less formal way. The phrase appears most frequently in news and media, academic, and wiki contexts. Related phrases include ""it carries no obligation"" and ""it is not enforceable"", each with slightly different nuances. Understanding these nuances allows for more precise and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it carries no obligation

Changes the phrasing to emphasize the absence of an obligation.

it is not enforceable

Focuses on the lack of legal enforceability.

it lacks legal force

Highlights the absence of legal authority.

it is non-compulsory

Emphasizes the voluntary nature of the action.

it is optional

Highlights that participation or adherence is a choice.

it doesn't create an obligation

States directly that no obligation is formed.

it is at one's discretion

Indicates that the decision is up to the individual's judgment.

it is merely advisory

Specifies that the recommendation is only for guidance.

it's a recommendation only

Shortens the description emphasizing its advisory nature.

it is not required

Simple statement that there's no requirement to follow.

FAQs

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

You can use "it is not binding" to indicate that a particular agreement, rule, or suggestion does not have legal or compulsory force. For instance, "The preliminary agreement is a non-binding document, so "it is not binding" until the final contract is signed".

What are some alternatives to "it is not binding"?

Alternatives to "it is not binding" include "it carries no obligation", "it is not enforceable", or "it is optional". The choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "it is not binding" and "it is not required"?

"It is not binding" implies that there is a suggestion or agreement that lacks legal force, while "it is not required" simply means there is no obligation to do something. "It is not binding" suggests a degree of formality that "it is not required" may lack.

Is "it is not binding" the same as "it is only advisory"?

Yes, "it is not binding" is very similar to "it is only advisory". Both phrases indicate that a recommendation or suggestion does not need to be followed. However, "it is only advisory" directly emphasizes the recommendation aspect, whereas "it is not binding" emphasizes the lack of enforcement.