just a stupidity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "just a stupidity" is not commonly used in written English and may sound awkward.
It can be used to express that something is merely foolish or nonsensical, but it is better to use it in informal contexts. Example: "I thought the idea was just a stupidity, not worth considering further."

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"It's just a stupidity".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Instead, there is an oscillation between wild optimism and resentful scapegoating of whoever is elected to take the blame for the fact that no English football team actually plays very well against foreigners The problem with penalties suggests that our failure is not just a matter of stupidity or of lack of talent and imagination, important though these doubtless are.

The Guardian

Several witnesses saw what happened and one described it as "just a case of stupidity".

Los Angeles Times

This collapse of morality was matched by the neglect of the government in Washington, and it is hard to figure out whether this was just a form of stupidity or outright cynicism.

Huffington Post

He couldn't convey thinking, which is not a sign of stupidity, just a failure of technique.

The New Yorker

"I don't have a racist bone in my body," said Eric Kitson of Stourport-on-Severn. "It's just a bit of bloody stupidity".

Vice

"It's the way people look at each other on the train; just general stupidity, madness, vulgarity, stupid TV shows, aspirational arseholes, money everywhere".

The Guardian

It's then mixed with stupid slapstick, stupid voices and just general stupidity (see The Exciting Life Of Mark Wright And Michelle Keegan, where the only line "Mark Wright" has is "car park").

The Guardian - TV & Radio

It's not just the stupidity of paying to see a waxen Tom Cruise, but the indignity of having to wait your turn.

The Guardian - Travel

Liam Stacey told BBC Wales Weekk in Week Out programme how the comments - "just drunken stupidity" - turned him into a national hate figure.

BBC

Mellis' red card was just stupidity but I think it was just frustration from the stonewall penalty being turned down.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using more common and polished alternatives such as "pure foolishness", "utter nonsense", or "sheer idiocy" for clearer and more impactful communication.

Common error

Avoid using "just a stupidity" in formal writing or professional settings. It can come across as too casual or even dismissive. Opt for more sophisticated terms when precision and clarity are important.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "just a stupidity" primarily functions as a noun phrase that serves to characterize something as foolish or nonsensical. Ludwig AI examples show that it is used to express a negative assessment of an action or idea.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "just a stupidity" is a noun phrase used to express disapproval or dismissal of something considered foolish. While grammatically acceptable, it is relatively uncommon and sounds informal, making it more suitable for casual contexts. Ludwig AI indicates that its use is primarily found in news and media sources. For formal writing, consider more polished alternatives like "sheer idiocy" or "utter foolishness".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

utter foolishness

Emphasizes the complete lack of sense or reason in something.

pure nonsense

Highlights the lack of meaning or logic.

sheer idiocy

Conveys a strong sense of extreme foolishness.

plain foolishness

Indicates simple, unadulterated foolishness.

complete absurdity

Focuses on the ridiculous and illogical nature of something.

total ridiculousness

Emphasizes the laughable and unreasonable nature of something.

absolute folly

Highlights the lack of wisdom or good sense.

blatant silliness

Conveys a sense of obvious and often inappropriate foolishness.

unmitigated idiocy

Underscores that the stupidity is not lessened or excused by any factor.

downright asininity

Implies foolishness, stubborness and ignorance.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "just a stupidity" for clarity?

Consider alternatives like "pure foolishness", "sheer idiocy", or "utter nonsense" to make your meaning clearer and more impactful.

Is "just a stupidity" grammatically incorrect?

While not strictly incorrect, the phrase "just a stupidity" is uncommon and may sound awkward. It's often better to use more standard alternatives.

What's the difference between "just a stupidity" and "sheer foolishness"?

"Just a stupidity" is less conventional and can sound informal or dismissive. "Sheer foolishness" is a more widely accepted and generally clearer way to express the same idea.

When is it appropriate to use "just a stupidity"?

The phrase "just a stupidity" is best used in informal contexts, such as casual conversations or personal writing, where a less formal tone is acceptable. In formal writing and professional settings, consider more polished alternatives.