not neat

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not neat" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is messy, disorganized, or lacking in tidiness. Example: "The report was not neat, with pages out of order and numerous typos throughout."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

"He is not neat.

The New York Times

"History is not neat," we read.

The New York Times - Arts

But Britain itself is not neat.

The Economist

"Straight as a Line" is not neat.

The New York Times

But not neat enough to make Mr. Piombini nostalgic.

The New York Times

It does not because language is not neat and tidy.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

A lot of times people aren't neat.

The New York Times

I liked the fact that it wasn't neat.

The Guardian

Life isn't neat or conclusive, you see.

The Guardian - Opinion

I can't stand a house that isn't neat and clean.

The New Yorker

The correspondences aren't neat, but the intersection of life and art never is.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing something as "not neat", consider the specific aspect of untidiness you want to emphasize. Using more precise language like "disorganized" or "messy" can provide a clearer picture.

Common error

In formal writing, "not neat" can sound too casual. Opt for more sophisticated alternatives like "disorderly" or "unstructured" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not neat" functions primarily as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a lack of tidiness, order, or precision. Ludwig AI confirms that this is correct and acceptable English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "not neat" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe something lacking order or tidiness. Ludwig AI data shows it's frequently used in news and media, as well as in informal contexts like wikis. While versatile, it's essential to consider the specific nuance you wish to convey, with alternatives like "messy", "disorganized", and "untidy" offering greater precision. In formal writing, it's advisable to opt for more sophisticated vocabulary to maintain a professional tone. Remember that while "not neat" is a perfectly acceptable phrase, choosing the most appropriate word enhances clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

messy

Highlights the presence of disorder and clutter.

untidy

Emphasizes a lack of cleanliness and order.

sloppy

Suggests a lack of care or attention to detail, resulting in messiness.

disorganized

Focuses on the lack of structure or systematic arrangement.

unorganized

Focuses on the lack of planning or systematic arrangement.

cluttered

Suggests an excessive accumulation of items, leading to disorder.

lacking order

Highlights the absence of a structured arrangement.

un порядок

Like other terms, it indicates that the element has been omitted by its orderly qualities.

scruffy

Describes a generally unkempt or disheveled appearance.

disheveled

Emphasizes a state of being rumpled or untidy.

FAQs

How can I use "not neat" in a sentence?

You can use "not neat" to describe something that lacks order or tidiness. For example: "His desk was "not neat", with papers scattered everywhere."

What can I say instead of "not neat"?

You can use alternatives like "messy", "disorganized", or "untidy" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "not neat"?

Yes, "not neat" is grammatically correct and commonly used. It's a simple and direct way to describe something that lacks order or tidiness.

What's the difference between "not neat" and "disorderly"?

"Not neat" is a more general term for lacking order, while "disorderly" often implies a more significant level of chaos or disruption.