not untrue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not untrue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is somewhat true or has elements of truth, often implying a degree of ambiguity or complexity. Example: "While his explanation was not untrue, it certainly lacked important details that would provide a clearer picture."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

Which is not untrue.

The New Yorker

It's not untrue.

The New Yorker

Not untrue, granted.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Not untrue, but desperately incomplete.

The Guardian - Opinion

But they are not untrue.

The Guardian - Books

That's not untrue, but it's a partial explanation".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

No, Strawson said, it isn't untrue – just meaningless.

Independent

Which isn't untrue, but isn't the whole truth either.

The Guardian - Music

Those stats aren't untrue.

Huffington Post

This isn't untrue, but it is frankly weird.

Vice

But it isn't untrue.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "not untrue" to acknowledge a statement's basic truth while implying that it may be incomplete, oversimplified, or potentially misleading. This allows for nuanced communication when a simple 'true' or 'false' response is inadequate.

Common error

Avoid using "not untrue" excessively, as it can make your writing sound convoluted or evasive. Opt for more direct and positive phrasing when possible to improve clarity and conciseness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not untrue" functions as a qualifier, softening the affirmation of a statement. It suggests that while something isn't false, it may be incomplete or require further clarification. Ludwig's examples illustrate this usage in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Encyclopedias

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "not untrue" is a useful linguistic tool for expressing nuanced agreement or qualified affirmation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and suitable for various writing contexts. While "not untrue" suggests a degree of truth, it also subtly signals potential limitations or the need for further elaboration. When used judiciously, particularly in news and media, it adds a layer of sophistication to communication, avoiding overly simplistic declarations. However, overuse can lead to convoluted writing, so writers should strive for clarity and consider more direct phrasing when appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

partially true

Replaces negation with qualification; more direct.

somewhat accurate

Substitutes "true" with "accurate" and uses "somewhat" for nuance.

not entirely false

Emphasizes the presence of some truth by negating complete falsity.

largely correct

Indicates a high degree of truth with minor inaccuracies.

essentially valid

Suggests that the core of the statement holds true.

substantially right

Implies that the statement is mostly correct but may have some flaws.

accurate to a degree

Highlights that accuracy is limited, not absolute.

not without truth

Affirms the existence of truth, albeit potentially limited.

valid in part

Specifies that only a portion of the statement is valid.

partially correct

A simple substitution that directly states a part of something is right.

FAQs

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

The phrase "not untrue" is used to indicate that something is partly or somewhat true, often implying a lack of complete accuracy or the presence of additional context. For example: "His statement about the company's profits was "not untrue", but it omitted the significant increase in debt."

What are some alternatives to "not untrue"?

Depending on the context, you can replace "not untrue" with phrases like "partially true", "somewhat accurate", or "not entirely false". These alternatives offer similar nuances while varying in emphasis and directness.

Is it better to use "not untrue" or "true"?

"Not untrue" is best used when you want to acknowledge a degree of truth but also hint at limitations, omissions, or potential for misinterpretation. If a statement is fully and completely accurate, "true" is the more appropriate choice. "Not untrue" implies a more complex assessment.

What is the connotation of "not untrue"?

The phrase "not untrue" often carries a connotation of understatement or reservation. It suggests that while a statement isn't outright false, it may not be the whole story or may require further scrutiny. It is less direct and affirmative than simply stating something is true.