not simply that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not simply that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize that there is more to a situation or argument than what has been previously stated. Example: "The issue is not simply that we lack resources; it also involves a lack of strategic planning."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Not simply that -- they were American.

Huffington Post

But it's not simply that I disagree with their ideas.

The New Yorker

It is not simply that intellectuals mistrust his popularity.

The Economist

The problem is not simply that wages have stalled.

The Guardian - Opinion

But it's not simply that producers are raising prices.

The New York Times - Food

It is not simply that arbitrators can impose unnecessarily restrictive or lenient standards.

Harvard University

It is not simply that the novels are better than the diaries.

The New York Times - Books

The reason is not simply that he still has a chance of winning.

The New York Times

It was not simply that his reign was long, peaceful and prosperous.

The Economist

The point is not simply that we are welcoming to gay people, though we are.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

It's not simply that actors have lost the habit of being quick or economical.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "not simply that", ensure the subsequent statement provides a clearer or more complete understanding of the situation, enriching the discussion.

Common error

Avoid making the initial statement too trivial or obvious. The effectiveness of "not simply that" relies on the contrast between the initial statement and the more substantive point that follows.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not simply that" functions as a transitional phrase, introducing a more significant or complex reason following a basic or potentially oversimplified explanation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. It serves to add depth and nuance to an argument.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Science

17%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "not simply that" is a versatile phrase used to introduce a more significant reason following an initial, often simplified, explanation. Ludwig AI confirms it's grammatically correct. It is frequently employed in neutral to professional contexts such as news media, scientific publications, and business communications, as well as less formal writing. The phrase helps to provide depth and nuance to an argument or statement, signaling that there are underlying factors that contribute to the overall context. Alternatives include "not merely that" and "it's more than that". When using "not simply that", ensure that the subsequent statement provides a clearer or more complete understanding of the situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not merely that

Replaces "simply" with "merely", emphasizing that something is not just a basic fact but something more significant.

it's not just that

Uses "just" instead of "simply", stressing that the stated reason is not the only factor.

it's more than that

Shifts the focus to highlighting that the matter goes beyond the initially stated point.

it goes beyond that

Indicates that the issue extends past the previous statement, suggesting broader implications.

that's not the whole story

Implies that additional, unmentioned aspects are crucial for a complete understanding.

there's more to it than that

Highlights that there are underlying or unstated factors contributing to the situation.

there's also the fact that

Introduces another element or consideration that is important to the situation.

it also involves

Indicates that other elements are part of the issue, expanding its scope.

another thing to consider is

Directly points out another aspect that requires attention and deliberation.

the matter extends to

Suggests that the problem or situation affects a wider range or area than previously indicated.

FAQs

How can I use "not simply that" in a sentence?

Use "not simply that" to introduce a more significant reason or factor after presenting a basic or incomplete explanation. For example, "The project failed, it's "not simply that" we lacked resources; the team also suffered from poor communication."

What are some alternatives to "not simply that"?

Alternatives include "not merely that", "it's more than that", or "it goes beyond that". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to use "not simply that" or "not just that"?

Both "not simply that" and "not just that" are grammatically correct and have similar meanings. "Not simply that" might sound slightly more formal, but the difference is minimal.

Can I use "not simply that" at the beginning of a sentence?

While possible, it's more common to use "not simply that" to connect two related clauses within a sentence, where the first clause presents a basic reason and the second expands upon it. Starting a sentence with it can sometimes sound awkward.