kind of unsatisfactory

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "kind of unsatisfactory" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a mild level of dissatisfaction or disappointment with something. Example: "The results of the experiment were kind of unsatisfactory, leading us to rethink our approach."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

In five or 10 years, it may no longer be possible to put together even the kind of unsatisfactory sales witnessed this week.

The New York Times - Arts

Contrarily, the performance of the Nyström method is kind of unsatisfactory.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

"It didn't violate Google's guidelines, and yet it was kind of unsatisfactory, like fast food when what you want is a real meal," says Danny Sullivan, editor-in-chief of Search Engine Land, which chronicles the business.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

We were safe enough up to that disastrous Sunday afternoon, but it was an unsatisfactory kind of safety, humiliating to some, foolish to others, clearly temporary to all but a few.

The New Yorker

However, lists of this kind are unsatisfactory for several reasons.

SEP

Mariella Frostrup Of course there has to be an implicit threat of some kind of follow-through in the event of unsatisfactory results from the weapons inspections, though my arguments against war are not based on the repulsive Iraqi regime and its possible store of weaponry.

The Guardian

When the birds were surprised by a cotton-tail rabbit, for instance, they gathered around him for an explanation, and he told them to relax, it was just a bunny, which the birds found wholly unsatisfactory — what kind of answer is that?

The New Yorker

Or is his behaviour the product of unsatisfactory parenting?

The Guardian - Film

Some were dismissed because of unsatisfactory personal habits.

The Guardian

Another said that at her school, the majority of unsatisfactory lessons were taught by unqualified staff.

The Guardian

There are no degrees of "unsatisfactory" performance any more, just pass and fail.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "kind of unsatisfactory" to express a mild level of dissatisfaction without being overly critical. This phrase is suitable when you want to soften your feedback or opinion.

Common error

Avoid using "kind of unsatisfactory" excessively, as it can weaken your writing and make you sound indecisive. Opt for more direct language when a stronger statement is appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "kind of unsatisfactory" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It softens the adjective "unsatisfactory", indicating a degree of inadequacy or disappointment. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in expressing mild dissatisfaction.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "kind of unsatisfactory" is a grammatically sound way to express mild disappointment or inadequacy. Ludwig AI validates its proper usage in English writing, and examples show it used in news, media, and science. While "kind of unsatisfactory" is suitable for general conversation or news reporting, more formal contexts may call for stronger or more precise language. Alternatives such as "somewhat disappointing" or "slightly inadequate" may be considered depending on the context. When using this phrase, be mindful of overuse and maintain clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Somewhat disappointing

Replaces "kind of" with "somewhat", emphasizing a degree of disappointment.

Slightly inadequate

Uses "slightly" to temper the feeling of inadequacy.

Rather underwhelming

Conveys a lack of excitement or impressiveness.

A bit subpar

Indicates performance or quality is below the expected standard.

Not entirely satisfactory

More formal phrasing, highlighting that something doesn't fully meet requirements.

Moderately deficient

Suggests a measurable lack or shortcoming.

Marginally insufficient

Implies the shortage or lack is small but still noticeable.

Barely acceptable

Indicates something is at the lowest level of being okay.

Leaves something to be desired

Expresses that something is missing or could be better.

Substantially flawed

Highlights significant imperfections or weaknesses.

FAQs

What does "kind of unsatisfactory" mean?

It means something is slightly disappointing or doesn't quite meet expectations. It's a way to express mild dissatisfaction.

How can I use "kind of unsatisfactory" in a sentence?

You can say, "The results were "kind of unsatisfactory", so we need to revise our approach."

What are some alternatives to "kind of unsatisfactory"?

Consider using alternatives like "somewhat disappointing", "slightly inadequate", or "rather underwhelming" depending on the context.

Is it okay to use "kind of unsatisfactory" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "kind of unsatisfactory" is generally better suited for informal contexts. In formal writing, more precise and direct language is often preferred, such as "not entirely satisfactory".