it is seldom

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is seldom" is a perfectly valid and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used to express something being rarely or infrequently the case. For example, you could say "It is seldom that I have any free time on the weekends."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It is seldom exported.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It is seldom used today.

The New Yorker

It is seldom staged.

The New York Times

So no wonder it is seldom seen.

The New York Times

And it is seldom played at all.

The New York Times

But it is seldom that simple.

The Guardian - Film

When that happens, it is seldom pretty.

The New Yorker

It is seldom more than 24 inches (60 cm) long.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Because it is seldom performed, "Actéon" was a special delight.

The New York Times - Arts

It is always competent, but it is seldom thrilling.

Independent

Although it is highly infectious, it is seldom lethal.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is seldom" to add a touch of formality or emphasis to your writing when describing infrequent occurrences. This phrase works well in both descriptive and analytical contexts.

Common error

While "it is seldom" is a perfectly valid phrase, avoid relying on it too heavily if your writing style leans towards informality. Overuse of formal phrases can make your writing sound unnatural. Balance it with simpler alternatives like "it doesn't happen often."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is seldom" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the infrequency of an action or event. Ludwig provides examples that showcase this usage in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

31%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is seldom" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression used to indicate that something occurs infrequently. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is acceptable and widely used across diverse fields. Predominantly found in news and media, scientific writing, and encyclopedias, it lends a touch of formality to written communication. While effective, writers should be mindful of its formality and balance its use with more casual alternatives when appropriate. This analysis helps ensure its correct and impactful application in various contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is uncommon

States that something is not generally found or experienced, varying by its broad assertion of infrequency.

it is not often

Presents a more straightforward negation of frequency, diverging by its simple, direct phrasing.

it is rare

Highlights the scarcity of something, varying by directly stating the uncommon occurrence.

it is infrequent

Stresses the lack of regularity, diverging by specifically pointing out the sporadic nature of an event.

it is unusual

Emphasizes that something is not typical or common, differing by focusing on the exceptional nature of an event.

it is a rarity

Identifies something as an uncommon instance, differing by using a noun phrase to convey infrequency.

it hardly ever happens

Uses a more conversational tone to express rarity, differing by employing everyday language.

it is scarcely seen

Focuses on the lack of visibility or observation, varying by emphasizing the infrequency of being witnessed.

it is exceptional

Highlights the deviation from the norm, varying by emphasizing the outstanding or unusual nature.

it is the exception

Positions something as an anomaly rather than the rule, differing by directly contrasting it with typical occurrences.

FAQs

What does "it is seldom" mean?

The phrase "it is seldom" means that something happens rarely or infrequently. It's a more formal way of saying "it doesn't happen often".

How can I use "it is seldom" in a sentence?

You can use "it is seldom" to describe something that occurs infrequently. For example, "It is seldom that we see such dedication to a project".

What are some alternatives to "it is seldom"?

Alternatives to "it is seldom" include phrases like "it is rare", "it is uncommon", or "it hardly ever happens". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "it is seldom" formal or informal?

"It is seldom" leans towards the formal side. For more informal situations, consider using phrases like "it doesn't happen often" or "it is not often".