not simple to duplicate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not simple to duplicate" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing something that is complex or challenging to replicate, such as a process, design, or idea. Example: "The unique craftsmanship of this artwork makes it not simple to duplicate, ensuring its value remains high."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

It was cheap, portable and simple to duplicate but, unlike a vinyl album, never a thing of beauty.

The Guardian - Music

That's not simple to provide.

Forbes

"We're not trying to duplicate history," he said.

The New York Times - Tech

We are not looking to duplicate Southfork Kitchen.

The New York Times

The book does not seek to duplicate or replace other current resources.

Springer

"We try not to duplicate powers".

The New York Times

"The biggest thing is trying not to duplicate or waste resources," Lindsell says.

The Guardian

"Its purpose is not to duplicate a Yale education".

The New York Times

How hard is it to be inspired by something but be careful not to duplicate it?

Forbes

"The intention of the program is not to duplicate resources," Bess said.

Los Angeles Times

Several talked about the need for human talents that machines and automation may not be able to duplicate.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a unique process or skill, use "not simple to duplicate" to emphasize its complexity and the expertise required. This adds value to the description.

Common error

Avoid using "not simple to duplicate" when "difficult" or "complex" suffices. The phrase is best reserved for situations where the act of duplication itself is a key factor.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not simple to duplicate" functions as an adjectival phrase that modifies a noun by describing a quality of it: the difficulty of being replicated. As Ludwig confirms, the phrase is usable and appropriate in English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Wiki

33%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "not simple to duplicate" is a grammatically sound way to convey that something is challenging to replicate due to its complexity or unique characteristics. While Ludwig indicates the phrase is correct and usable, its usage is relatively rare. When writing, consider if alternatives such as "not easy to replicate" or "difficult to imitate" might be more appropriate depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey. The phrase is versatile enough for both formal and informal settings, though it's important to avoid overuse in contexts where simpler language would suffice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not easy to replicate

Emphasizes the lack of ease in reproducing something.

not straightforward to reproduce

Highlights the absence of a direct or uncomplicated method for reproduction.

difficult to imitate

Focuses on the challenge of creating a copy that matches the original.

hard to replicate

Stresses the difficulty in making an accurate replica.

complex to reproduce

Highlights the intricacy involved in the reproduction process.

challenging to duplicate

Emphasizes the demanding nature of the duplication task.

not readily reproducible

Indicates that something cannot be easily reproduced.

unique and difficult to emulate

Highlights the uniqueness and the difficulty in emulating something

inimitable

Suggests something is so unique that it cannot be imitated.

one-of-a-kind

Emphasizes the singularity of the item, making duplication inherently impossible.

FAQs

What does "not simple to duplicate" mean?

It means something is complex or challenging to replicate or reproduce accurately. It implies more than just difficulty; it suggests the process of duplication faces significant hurdles.

What are some alternatives to "not simple to duplicate"?

Alternatives include "not easy to replicate", "difficult to imitate", or "hard to reproduce", depending on the specific context.

How can I use "not simple to duplicate" in a sentence?

For instance: "The intricate design of this watch makes it "not simple to duplicate", requiring specialized skills and tools."

Is it correct to say "not easy to duplicate" instead of "not simple to duplicate"?

Yes, "not easy to duplicate" is a perfectly acceptable alternative. The choice often depends on the desired tone and emphasis.