just words

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "just words" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to imply that something lacks substance or is merely verbal without action. Example: "His promises were just words, without any real commitment behind them." Alternative expressions include "mere words" and "empty words."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Arts

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"It was just words".

The New York Times - Sports

"Just words…" sighed More.

Independent

"Just words," she said.

The New Yorker

But these are just words.

The New York Times

But words are just words.

The New York Times - Sports

To me, they're just words.

Independent

They are just words.

The New York Times

Those aren't just words.

The New York Times - Style

"It's just words, folks.

The New Yorker

All just words.

The Guardian - Arts

"It's not just words.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "just words" to express skepticism or disappointment when actions don't match the language used. It effectively conveys a sense of unfulfilled expectation.

Common error

Avoid using "just words" as a standalone phrase without providing context. Clearly indicate what specific words or statements you are referring to for clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "just words" functions primarily as a noun phrase or adjectival phrase, often used to qualify promises, apologies, or expressions of intent as lacking substance or genuine commitment. As Ludwig AI confirms, it frequently implies a disconnect between what is said and what is done.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Sports

12%

Arts

9%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "just words" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to convey skepticism or disappointment regarding statements that lack substance or are not supported by actions. Ludwig AI’s analysis reveals that it functions as a noun or adjectival phrase, often found in News & Media contexts. While "just words" is generally acceptable, it’s crucial to use it with clear context to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives like "mere talk" or "empty promises" can provide more specific nuances. Based on this comprehensive analysis, the expert rating is 4.6.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mere talk

Focuses on the emptiness of the speech, emphasizing the lack of action or sincerity.

empty promises

Specifically targets promises that are not fulfilled, implying deception or unreliability.

pure lip service

Emphasizes the insincerity of expressing support or agreement without taking real action.

idle chatter

Suggests frivolous and unimportant conversation, lacking depth or purpose.

hollow rhetoric

Emphasizes the insincerity and lack of genuine feeling behind the words.

shallow pronouncements

Indicates a lack of depth or sincerity in the stated words.

insignificant utterances

Highlights the lack of importance or impact of the spoken words.

meaningless jargon

Implies the words are complex or technical but ultimately convey nothing of value.

verbal expressions alone

Stresses that only words are present and that there are no actions.

simple verbiage

Highlights the quality of language.

FAQs

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

You can use "just words" to express that someone's words are not supported by actions. For example, "His promises were "just words", with no real intention behind them".

What's a more formal alternative to "just words"?

In formal settings, you could use phrases like "empty rhetoric", "hollow promises", or "unsubstantiated claims" instead of "just words".

When is it appropriate to use "just words"?

It's appropriate when you want to imply that someone's statements are insincere, lack substance, or are not followed by concrete actions. Be mindful of the context and the potential for sounding dismissive.

What is the difference between "just words" and "mere words"?

The phrases "just words" and "mere words" are very similar in meaning. Both convey the idea that words alone are insufficient or unimportant, especially when not backed by actions. The difference is subtle; "mere words" might emphasize the insignificance of the words themselves, while "just words" emphasizes the separation between words and actions.