not representative

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not representative" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing the idea that something does not represent or accurately portray a particular group, situation, or opinion. For example: The opinion of the few people surveyed is not representative of the opinions of all members of the community.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"But it's not representative.

The New York Times - Books

He is not representative".

The New York Times

Just not representative".

The New Yorker

Perhaps they are not representative".

Independent

But it is not representative".

The New York Times

"It's certainly not representative.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It is not representative".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

They were not representative," she said.

Independent

But the poor are not representative.

The Economist

Cook's sample is not representative.

The Guardian

The bishops are not representative.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "not representative", clarify what the subject is not representative of. This adds clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "not representative" to dismiss data without providing a sound justification. Explain why the sample is biased or skewed, instead of simply stating that it's "not representative".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not representative" functions as an adjective phrase, typically modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate that it does not accurately reflect a larger group or population. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is commonly used and grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "not representative" is a common and grammatically correct way to express that something doesn't accurately reflect a larger group or population. As noted by Ludwig AI, its primary function is to highlight discrepancies and caution against generalizations. It's frequently used in news and media, science, and formal business contexts, emphasizing the importance of accuracy and unbiased data interpretation. While alternatives like "unrepresentative" exist, "not representative" remains a versatile and widely understood choice. When employing this phrase, ensure you clarify what the subject is not representative of to maintain clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unrepresentative

A single word conveying the same core meaning, offering brevity.

does not represent

A more verbose construction that states directly that something fails to represent.

not typical

Focuses on the idea that something deviates from the norm.

not indicative

Highlights that something does not serve as a reliable sign or example.

not reflective

Implies that something does not mirror or accurately show something else.

atypical

Similar to "not typical", emphasizing deviation from the average.

not characteristic

Highlights that something lacks the common traits of a particular group or category.

misleading

Emphasizes the potential for something to give a false impression.

not a good example

Directly states that something fails to meet the standard of a good example.

an exception to the rule

Positions something as an outlier rather than a typical occurrence.

FAQs

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

You can use "not representative" to indicate that a sample, group, or example does not accurately reflect a larger population or situation. For example, "The survey results are "not representative" of the entire city's population".

What are some alternatives to saying "not representative"?

Alternatives include "unrepresentative", "not typical", "not indicative", or "misleading depending on the context".

Is it better to say "not representative" or "unrepresentative"?

Both "not representative" and "unrepresentative" are grammatically correct. "Not representative" is slightly more common, but "unrepresentative" offers a more concise option.

What does it mean when something is described as "not representative"?

When something is described as "not representative", it means that it doesn't accurately reflect the characteristics, opinions, or qualities of the larger group or population it is supposed to represent.