not altogether simple

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not altogether simple" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is complex or has multiple layers, indicating that it is not entirely straightforward. Example: "The process of applying for a visa can be not altogether simple, as there are many requirements to fulfill."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

The conception of an "honest" politician is not altogether a simple one.

Forbes

Using a real bank behind the scenes is not altogether different from how other startups, like Simple and Dwolla, operate.

TechCrunch

Who knows, maybe the game it's scheduled to come out this fall will be a simple romp that's not altogether horrendous?

TechCrunch

Not altogether.

The Economist

But not altogether.

The New Yorker

Not altogether warranted.

The New York Times - Sports

Remarkable, but not altogether surprising.

The New Yorker

Well, not altogether alone.

The New York Times - Books

Not altogether inappropriately.

The Guardian

They were not altogether fair.

The Economist

That is not altogether surprising.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "not altogether simple" when you want to convey that something is more complex than it initially appears, but without suggesting it's overwhelmingly difficult. It's a nuanced way to introduce complexity.

Common error

Avoid using "not altogether simple" when the subject is genuinely very complicated or difficult. It can downplay the true level of complexity and mislead your audience. Reserve it for situations with moderate, underlying complexity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not altogether simple" functions as an adverbial modifier qualifying an adjective. It indicates a degree of complexity or a lack of straightforwardness. It's used to temper an assessment, suggesting something isn't as easy or uncomplicated as it might initially appear. Ludwig confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "not altogether simple" serves as a nuanced way to introduce complexity without overwhelming the audience. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and usable in written English. It's best employed when you want to convey that something is more complex than it initially appears, but not overwhelmingly difficult. While the phrase is suitable for a variety of contexts, it appears most frequently in News & Media and Science. Alternatives such as "somewhat complex" and "not entirely straightforward" offer similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

somewhat complex

This alternative replaces the entire phrase with a more direct expression of complexity.

not entirely straightforward

This phrase offers a slightly different emphasis, focusing on the directness or clarity of something.

rather intricate

This emphasizes the detailed and interwoven nature of the subject.

quite involved

This suggests that the matter requires significant effort or attention to understand.

a bit convoluted

Implies the subject is unnecessarily complex and difficult to follow.

not as easy as it seems

Highlights a deceptive simplicity, implying hidden complexities.

more complicated than it appears

Similar to 'not as easy as it seems', but slightly more formal.

far from elementary

Emphasizes a departure from basic or fundamental understanding.

substantially multifaceted

Indicates that something has many aspects or dimensions.

remarkably layered

Suggests that the subject has multiple levels of meaning or interpretation.

FAQs

What does "not altogether simple" mean?

The phrase "not altogether simple" means something is more complex than it might initially seem, but without being overwhelmingly complicated. It suggests a nuanced level of difficulty.

How can I use "not altogether simple" in a sentence?

You can use "not altogether simple" to describe a situation, task, or concept that has underlying complexities. For example: "The solution to this problem is "somewhat complex", and therefore not altogether simple."

What are some alternatives to "not altogether simple"?

Alternatives include "somewhat complex", "not entirely straightforward", or "rather intricate". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "not altogether simple" a formal or informal phrase?

"Not altogether simple" is generally suitable for neutral to formal contexts. It's more sophisticated than saying something is "easy" or "hard" but less technical than terms like "multifaceted" or "convoluted".