just communicating

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "just communicating" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of conveying information or messages in a straightforward manner without any additional context or embellishments. Example: "In this meeting, we are just communicating our ideas clearly to ensure everyone is on the same page."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

1. Overcommunicate The brilliant author, Patrick Lencioni, makes the point that if you are just communicating, you are actually "under-communicating".

Huffington Post

Just communicating with guys, joking with guys.

The New York Times - Sports

Because when you say no without guilt, you're just communicating.

Harvard Business Review

First, however, she made sure she was not just communicating with a computer.

The New York Times

Mr. Oulson kept at it, explaining that he was just communicating about a preschooler.

The New York Times

"I'm fascinated by how elephants and humans interact," says Dirk. "We don't ever ride the elephants; just communicating with them is an electric experience".

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

Whatever the communication, just communicate.

Forbes

Thus stories don't just communicate information; they build empathy and community.

University of California, Berkeley

And not just "communicate better".

The New York Times

Just communicate with them".

The New York Times

It just communicates repetition.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "just communicating", ensure the context clarifies the simplicity and lack of additional intent behind the communication. This can help avoid misunderstandings.

Common error

Avoid using "just communicating" when the communication involves complex emotions or requires a deeper understanding. This phrase can sometimes be perceived as dismissive or lacking empathy if the situation calls for more than a simple exchange of information.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "just communicating" functions as a gerund phrase, often used to describe an action in progress or a state of being. It highlights the act of communication with an emphasis on its simplicity or lack of additional intent. This is supported by Ludwig, which provides examples of its usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "just communicating" is a grammatically correct gerund phrase used to emphasize the simplicity and directness of communication. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use across various contexts, though it is more frequently found in news and media. While versatile, it's important to consider the context to avoid misinterpretations of intent, ensuring that the communication is not perceived as dismissive or lacking empathy. As Ludwig confirms, the phrase is suitable for neutral registers and aims to convey information clearly and without hidden agendas.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

merely conveying information

This alternative emphasizes the simplicity and lack of additional intent in the communication.

simply expressing

This alternative highlights the directness and clarity of the communication.

only informing

This suggests the communication is limited to providing information without further action.

plainly stating

This emphasizes the clarity and lack of embellishment in the communication.

purely communicating

This alternative stresses the unadulterated nature of the communication.

solely conveying

This highlights that the communication is limited to the act of conveying a message.

exclusively informing

This suggests that the communication is strictly for informing purposes.

just interacting

This alternative broadens the scope to any form of interaction, not just communication.

merely interacting

Similar to "just interacting", but with added emphasis on the simplicity of the interaction.

only relating

This implies a connection or sharing of information without further engagement.

FAQs

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

You can use "just communicating" to describe a simple exchange of information, such as, "We're "just communicating" the basic requirements for the project."

What can I say instead of "just communicating"?

Alternatives include "simply expressing", "merely conveying information", or "only informing", depending on the context.

Is it always appropriate to use "just communicating"?

No, it's not always appropriate. Use this phrase when you want to emphasize the simplicity and lack of hidden agenda in the communication. In situations requiring empathy or deeper understanding, other phrases might be more suitable.

What's the difference between "just communicating" and "effectively communicating"?

"Just communicating" refers to the act of conveying information without necessarily implying success or effectiveness. In contrast, "effectively communicating" emphasizes the successful and clear transmission of a message.