not simple

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not simple" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is complex or requires more effort to understand or accomplish. Example: "The problem we are facing is not simple, and it will require a thorough analysis to find a solution."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Tourism is not simple.

The New York Times

It is not simple.

The New York Times

It's not simple.

The New York Times

It's not simple greed.

The New York Times - Books

Not simple anything.

The Guardian

Not simple aesthetics?

The Guardian - Music

This is not simple.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It's just not simple".

The Guardian - Sport

Naturally, it's not simple.

The Guardian - Music

But it's not simple.

The New York Times

Remedies are not simple.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "not simple" to convey that a situation, problem, or solution requires careful consideration and is multifaceted. It is a versatile phrase applicable in both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "not simple" when a more direct term like "difficult" or "complex" would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound verbose. Be mindful of the context and choose the most appropriate word to convey the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not simple" functions as a negative descriptor, modifying nouns or situations to indicate a lack of straightforwardness or ease. This contrasts with a direct affirmation of complexity. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Science & Research

3%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "not simple" is a versatile and commonly used expression to indicate complexity or a lack of straightforwardness. According to Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and usable in written English. While synonyms like "complex" or "complicated" exist, "not simple" provides a slightly different nuance, often emphasizing the ease that is not present. As evidenced by the examples, it appears frequently in News & Media and Academic contexts. When writing, consider if a more direct term might be clearer, but embrace "not simple" when you need to highlight the multifaceted nature of a topic.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not straightforward

Emphasizes the lack of directness or ease in understanding or execution.

not easy

Highlights the difficulty involved in achieving or understanding something.

complex

Focuses on the intricate nature and multiple layers involved.

complicated

Suggests a tangled or involved state, often leading to confusion.

not uncomplicated

A more formal way of saying "complex", often used in academic or professional contexts.

involved

Indicates that something requires significant effort or understanding.

intricate

Stresses the detailed and elaborate nature of something.

far from simple

Emphasizes the significant difference between the actual state and simplicity.

not a walk in the park

An idiomatic expression indicating that something is challenging or difficult.

difficult

A general term indicating that something requires effort or skill.

FAQs

What does "not simple" mean?

The phrase "not simple" indicates that something is complex, intricate, or requires more than a basic understanding. It suggests that the subject at hand involves multiple factors or layers.

What can I say instead of "not simple"?

You can use alternatives like "not straightforward", "complex", or "complicated" depending on the context.

How do you use "not simple" in a sentence?

You can use "not simple" to describe a task, a problem, or a concept. For example: "Solving this equation is not simple" or "The answer is not simple."

Is it better to say "not simple" or "complex"?

Both phrases are acceptable, but "complex" is often more direct and concise. The best choice depends on the specific context and the desired nuance. "Not simple" may be preferred when emphasizing the lack of ease, while "complex" emphasizes the intricate nature.