it is not flashy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is not flashy" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is simple, understated, or lacks excessive decoration or showiness. Example: "The design of the website is effective because it is not flashy, allowing users to focus on the content."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

It is not flashy.

The New York Times

"Most of it is not flashy," said the Cucinelli saleswoman at Bergdorf.

The New York Times

And it is not flashy (apart from the annoying "new" highlights, which flash).

The Economist

A lot of that is unseen — it is not flashy, like the big poster launches.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

It isn't flashy, but it's a new and theatrically rewarding twist on a familiar scene.

The New York Times

It isn't commercial, it isn't flashy and it's not purpose-built for football, but it's theirs in heart and mind and they love it that way.

The Guardian - Sport

"It's an underappreciated performance because it isn't flashy.

Los Angeles Times

It isn't flashy; the filmmaking and the performances are muted.

Vice

It's the kind of speaking that bores some people because it isn't flashy or emotional.

Huffington Post

It isn't flashy and includes a large question database.[30].[30]

WikiHow

Like its subjects, "Not Your Typical Bigfoot Movie" has a modest, down-home feel: it's not flashy or even visually pleasing, its pace is leisurely and its intent unfocused.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing something that is well-designed in a way that does not seek attention, "it is not flashy" can be effective. However, make sure you're clear about what qualities it does possess.

Common error

Avoid simply stating "it is not flashy" without explaining why it's not flashy or what positive qualities it possesses instead. Provide specific details or comparisons to give the phrase more weight and meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is not flashy" primarily functions as a descriptive statement. Ludwig AI shows that it is used to characterize something as lacking ostentation or excessive ornamentation, often implying a focus on functionality or substance. Its function is to provide a qualitative assessment of something's appearance or style.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

25%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it is not flashy" is used to describe something that lacks ostentation and prioritizes simplicity and functionality. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and usable, often appearing in news and media contexts. While the phrase is relatively rare, it serves a specific purpose in conveying an appreciation for understated qualities. Alternatives such as "it is understated" or "it is simple" can be used to convey a similar meaning. When using this phrase, ensure to provide context by explaining why something is not flashy and what positive attributes it possesses instead. The source quality is high as it originates from well-respected sources. Overall, "it is not flashy" is a valuable phrase when you want to express appreciation for something that is elegant in its simplicity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is understated

Focuses on the subtlety and restraint in the design or presentation.

it is low-key

Indicates a relaxed and subtle approach.

it is unpretentious

Emphasizes the lack of arrogance or affectation.

it is subtle

Highlights the refined and delicate nature of the subject.

it is simple

Highlights the lack of complexity and ornamentation.

it is restrained

Implies a controlled and disciplined approach, avoiding excess.

it is muted

Suggests a softened or toned-down quality, lacking vibrancy.

it is modest

Highlights the humility and lack of extravagance.

it lacks ostentation

Replaces "flashy" with a more formal term, "ostentation", to emphasize the absence of showiness.

it is plain

Emphasizes the simplicity and lack of ornamentation.

FAQs

What does it mean when something is described as "it is not flashy"?

When something is described as "it is not flashy", it means that it is simple, understated, and lacks excessive decoration or showiness. It prioritizes functionality and substance over superficial appeal.

What can I say instead of "it is not flashy"?

You can use alternatives like "it is understated", "it is simple", or "it is unpretentious" depending on the context.

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

You can use "it is not flashy" to describe designs, strategies, or behaviors that prioritize functionality. For example, "The website design is effective because "it is not flashy", allowing users to focus on the content."

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "it is not flashy"?

It is appropriate to use the phrase "it is not flashy" when you want to highlight the lack of ostentation or extravagance in something, often implying a preference for simplicity, functionality, or substance over superficial appeal.