it is not dead

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is not dead" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is still alive, functioning, or relevant, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "Despite the rumors, the old tradition is not dead; it continues to thrive in our community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

It is not dead, but it is in its early death throes, just as the social-democratic era was during the 1970s.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is not dead.

The New York Times

But it is not dead yet.

The Economist

It is not dead yet, but it is exhausted.

The New York Times

"The consumer has been damaged but it is not dead," Mr. Wood said.

The New York Times

As for the rest of the writing, it is not dead or alive.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

In April 2010, Thomas insisted, "it's not dead.

Wikipedia

So it isn't dead after all.

The Guardian - Arts

It's a threatened quality, but it isn't dead.

The Guardian - Travel

You have to believe that this tie isn't over yet, that it isn't dead".

The Guardian - Sport

It isn't dead yet, but it should be.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is not dead" to convey resilience or persistence in the face of decline or obsolescence. For example, use it when referring to traditions, movements, or technologies that still have relevance despite challenges.

Common error

Avoid using "it is not dead" in situations where a more straightforward affirmation of existence would suffice. Overusing this phrase in mundane contexts can dilute its impact and make your writing sound melodramatic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is not dead" primarily functions as a statement of negation, specifically denying the cessation of existence, activity, or relevance. Ludwig confirms that the expression follows standard grammar rules, indicating its acceptability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is not dead" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to convey the continued existence, relevance, or activity of something. As noted by Ludwig, this phrase is correct and usable in written English, often applied metaphorically. While versatile, it appears most commonly in news and media sources. When considering alternative phrases, options like "it still exists" or "it remains active" can offer similar meanings. Be mindful to avoid overusing "it is not dead" in mundane contexts to maintain its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it still exists

Replaces "dead" with a more direct affirmation of existence.

it is still alive

Uses the antonym of "dead" to directly express continued life or activity.

it remains active

Focuses on the continued functionality or operation of something.

it persists

Highlights the enduring nature of something despite potential challenges.

it endures

Similar to "persists", but with a stronger emphasis on withstanding difficulties.

it has not disappeared

Emphasizes the lack of disappearance, suggesting continued presence.

it continues to thrive

Suggests not only existence but also successful growth or development.

it lives on

Implies a continuation of influence or impact, even if in a different form.

it hasn't faded away

Indicates that something has retained its strength or importance.

it survives

Highlights the ability to continue existing, especially in adverse conditions.

FAQs

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

You can use "it is not dead" to express that something still exists, functions, or remains relevant despite expectations to the contrary. For example, "Despite the rise of digital media, traditional publishing is not dead."

What are some alternatives to saying "it is not dead"?

You can use alternatives such as "it still exists", "it remains active", or "it continues to thrive" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "it is not dead" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "it is not dead" might be considered somewhat informal for certain academic or professional contexts. Consider alternatives like "it persists" or "it endures" for a more formal tone.

What does it mean when someone says "it is not dead yet"?

Saying "it is not dead yet" implies that something is in a state of decline but still has some life or potential remaining. It suggests a situation that is precarious but not entirely hopeless.