it is not sufficient

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is not sufficient" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to express that something is not adequate or satisfactory. Some examples of when you could use this phrase are: - "The evidence presented is not sufficient to prove the defendant's guilt." - "Her salary is not sufficient to cover her living expenses." - "Simply telling someone to 'be more positive' is not sufficient to address their mental health struggles." In each of these examples, the phrase is used to convey that something is lacking or not enough.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But it is not sufficient.

The New York Times

But alone it is not sufficient.

Independent

It is not sufficient now".

The New York Times

But for him it is not sufficient.

The New York Times

However, the women say it is not sufficient.

The Guardian

However, it is not sufficient to obtain all this information.

Catalysis Today

That is necessary, but it is not sufficient.

The New Yorker

Sometimes it is not sufficient to organize a disorganized country.

The Washington Post

For PIC methods it is not sufficient to adapt the computational grid.

Journal of Computational Physics

However, although non-rebound is a necessary condition for coalescence, it is not sufficient.

Chemical Engineering Science

The data is consistent with this notion, even if it is not sufficient to prove it.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it is not sufficient", clearly state what is needed to achieve the desired outcome. This provides context and suggests a path forward, rather than simply pointing out a deficiency.

Common error

Avoid using "it is not sufficient" in contexts where a slight improvement would suffice. If the deficiency is minor, consider softening the statement with phrases like "it could be improved" or "it is not quite ideal".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is not sufficient" functions as a judgmental expression, used to indicate that something is inadequate or lacking in the necessary qualities or quantity. Ludwig AI shows that the phrase is frequently used to critique or assess situations and outcomes, highlighting a deficiency.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is not sufficient" is a common and grammatically correct way to express that something is inadequate or lacking. According to Ludwig AI, it's frequently used in News & Media, Science, and Academic contexts to express negative evaluations or point out deficiencies. When employing this phrase, clarity is key, as is the awareness of its formality. While it's a versatile phrase, being mindful of context and exploring alternatives like "it is inadequate" or "it is not enough" can enhance writing precision and impact. Always state what is needed to overcome the insufficiency.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is not enough

A more direct and simpler way of expressing insufficiency.

it is insufficient

A more formal and direct synonym expressing a lack of what's needed.

it is inadequate

Emphasizes a deficiency or lack of necessary quality.

it falls short

Indicates that something doesn't meet a required standard or expectation.

it is deficient

Emphasizes a specific lack or shortcoming.

it is lacking

Highlights the absence of something essential.

it is wanting

Implies that something is missing or needed.

it is not up to par

Suggests that something does not meet the expected level of quality or performance.

it is not comprehensive

Highlights a lack of thoroughness or completeness.

it only goes so far

Indicates limitations or restrictions in effectiveness or scope.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "it is not sufficient" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using alternatives such as "it is inadequate", "it is insufficient", or "it is not comprehensive". These options provide a more elevated and professional feel.

What's a more direct way to say "it is not sufficient"?

A more direct and straightforward alternative to "it is not sufficient" is "it is not enough". This option is simple and easily understood in most contexts.

When is it appropriate to use "it is not sufficient"?

Use "it is not sufficient" when you want to express that something does not meet the necessary requirements or standards. It is suitable when indicating a deficiency or lack of completeness. Using the phrase underlines that more action is needed, it "only goes so far".

Which is the difference between "it is not sufficient" and "it falls short"?

"It is not sufficient" indicates a lack of required quantity or quality, while "it falls short" suggests a failure to meet a specific expectation or target. "It is not sufficient" focuses on inadequacy, whereas "it falls short" emphasizes unmet standards.