not content with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'not content with' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express a state of dissatisfaction with something or someone. For example: "He was not content with his test score and so spent the evening studying for a retake."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

The King was not content with being.

The New Yorker

I'm not content with crumbs".

The New York Times

He's not content with just getting by.

The Guardian - Arts

But he's not content with that.

The New York Times - Magazine

The commissioners were not content with that.

The New York Times

He's not content with what he did.

The New York Times - Sports

Mikel is not content with being rotated under Benítez.

The Guardian - Sport

She was not content with resting on her laurels.

The Guardian

But we are not content with equal representation.

The Guardian - Opinion

Some parents, she adds, are not content with calling.

The New Yorker

Except this time, they're not content with just retro reproductions.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "not content with", ensure that the object of dissatisfaction is clearly stated to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "He was not content with it", specify what "it" refers to.

Common error

Avoid using "not content with" in overly passive constructions that obscure the subject. For example, instead of "Progress was not content with being made", prefer "The team was not content with the progress made" to maintain clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not content with" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun or pronoun, expressing a state of dissatisfaction or a desire for something more. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and widely used. It often precedes a noun phrase specifying the object of discontent.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "not content with" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote dissatisfaction or a desire for something more. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and suitable for various writing contexts, though primarily found in news and media sources. To enhance clarity, always specify the object of discontent. Alternative phrases like "dissatisfied with" or "unhappy with" can be used to express similar meanings. Be mindful of passive constructions that might obscure the subject, and remember that while it often carries a negative connotation, it can also be used to highlight ambition.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dissatisfied with

Replaces "not content" with a direct synonym, maintaining a similar level of formality.

unhappy with

Uses a more common and slightly less formal synonym for "not content".

not satisfied with

Emphasizes the lack of fulfillment, similar to "not content".

yearning for more than

Conveys a strong desire for something beyond the current situation, adding an element of longing.

seeking something beyond

Highlights the active pursuit of something greater than the current state.

desiring more than

Focuses on the wish for something additional or better.

restless with

Suggests a state of unease and a need for change or improvement.

not pleased with

Uses a more direct and less nuanced expression of dissatisfaction.

demanding more than

Indicates a strong expectation or requirement for something superior.

aspiring beyond

Emphasizes ambition and the pursuit of goals beyond the current limitations.

FAQs

How can I use "not content with" in a sentence?

You can use "not content with" to express dissatisfaction or a desire for more. For example, "She was "not content with" her current job and started looking for new opportunities".

What is a more formal alternative to "not content with"?

A more formal alternative could be "dissatisfied with" or "displeased with". These options maintain a similar meaning while sounding more sophisticated. For example, "The board was "dissatisfied with" the company's performance".

Is there a subtle difference between "not satisfied with" and "not content with"?

While similar, "not satisfied with" often implies a lack of fulfillment regarding a specific outcome or expectation, while "not content with" suggests a more general sense of unease or a desire for something more encompassing. You might be "not satisfied with" a meal because it didn't taste good, but "not content with" your life if you feel unfulfilled despite having everything you need.

Can "not content with" be used in a positive context?

While primarily used to express dissatisfaction, it can be used in a positive context to highlight someone's ambition or drive. For example, "Not content with simply meeting the deadline, she aimed to exceed all expectations".