just a declaration

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "just a declaration" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a statement or announcement that is straightforward or lacks additional context or complexity. Example: "The document was not a contract, but rather just a declaration of intent."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

"That's not just a declaration of intent.

The New York Times

"Those heavenly fruits that were promised to people, they were just a declaration that brought nothing but general impoverishment".

The New York Times

And many of these removals would have occurred in any case, since they were the result of unacceptable conduct and not just a declaration of sexual orientation.

The New York Times

Our new policy was not just a declaration; during my tenure, we worked hard and in good faith to implement it.

The New York Times

It is not just a declaration or destination, but something that needs to be built into all facets of the organization.

Forbes

But there was no "real criticism," just a declaration and so Parker persisted: "I've had people say, 'Well, weren't you worried that if everybody disagreed, you might be wrong?' My reply is, 'I'm working with Newton.

University of Chicago

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

The new group had just issued a declaration in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, opposing "international terrorism, religious extremism, and national separatism".

Encyclopedia Britannica

Then he walked away from the podium as surprised delegates asked themselves whether they had just heard a declaration.

The New York Times

The direct-action group, named after the uniform its members wear to protests, has just issued a "declaration of war" on the meeting in Genoa.

The Guardian

Or perhaps it was just a "a declaration of impunity", says Jessica Lewis, a former American intelligence officer in Iraq who works at the Institute for the Study of War in Washington, DC.IS members who appear on social media view the prospect of more intense American action with a mixture of glee and fear.

The Economist

But - and this is where the EU believing MPs are out of touch with reality really kicks in - the political declaration is just that: a declaration.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "just a declaration" to downplay the significance of a statement, implying it lacks substance or supporting evidence. It works well when contrasting words with deeds.

Common error

Avoid using "just a declaration" repeatedly in your writing without providing context. Overuse can make your writing sound dismissive and lacking in nuance. Instead, vary your language and provide specific reasons why the declaration is insufficient.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "just a declaration" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often used as a predicate nominative or object of a preposition. It serves to characterize a statement or announcement, often in a dismissive or critical way. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "just a declaration" is a commonly used phrase to express that a statement or announcement lacks substance or supporting evidence. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It is frequently found in news and media contexts, with occasional usage in academic and formal business settings. When using the phrase, consider alternatives like "merely a statement" or "simply an announcement" to vary your language. Be mindful of overuse and always provide context to avoid sounding overly dismissive. Overall, "just a declaration" is a useful phrase for expressing skepticism or highlighting a disconnect between words and actions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

merely a statement

Focuses on the simplicity and lack of elaboration of the statement.

simply an announcement

Emphasizes the act of making something known without further action.

bare assertion

Highlights the lack of evidence or support for the declaration.

unsubstantiated statement

Directly points out the absence of proof or verification.

empty promise

Suggests the declaration is unlikely to be fulfilled.

hollow claim

Implies the declaration lacks substance or sincerity.

mere formality

Indicates the declaration is done as a routine or obligation, without real intent.

lip service

Suggests the declaration is insincere and not backed by action.

verbal commitment only

Focuses on the lack of written or binding agreement.

symbolic gesture

Highlights the declaration's purpose as a representation, rather than a concrete action.

FAQs

How can I use "just a declaration" in a sentence?

You can use "just a declaration" to indicate that a statement is not supported by evidence or action. For example, "Their promise to reduce emissions was "just a declaration" without any concrete plans."

What can I say instead of "just a declaration"?

You can use alternatives like "merely a statement", "simply an announcement", or "bare assertion" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "it's just a declaration"?

Yes, "it's just a declaration" is grammatically correct and commonly used to express that something is only a statement and lacks substantial backing or action.

What is the difference between "just a declaration" and "a firm commitment"?

"Just a declaration" implies a lack of commitment or action, while "a firm commitment" suggests a strong intention to follow through with concrete actions. The former is often seen as insufficient, while the latter is viewed as reliable and trustworthy.