not very genuine

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not very genuine" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something or someone that lacks authenticity or sincerity. Example: "Her apology felt not very genuine, as she seemed more concerned about her image than the hurt she caused."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Health Policy

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

This also impacted on the perception that the meetings 'were not very genuine' (Patient Representative 9) and that there was 'some soft soaping going on.' (Older Person 2) It was obvious that they were trying to impress people, because lunch was laid on.

Health Policy

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

"All in all," he writes tellingly, "I cannot see why the option of her returning to Darlington Hall and seeing out her working years there should not offer a very genuine consolation to a life that has come to be so dominated by a sense of waste".

The Guardian - Books

Despite the suspicion of many in the Tea Party that Republicans in Washington are trying to co-opt the movement, Mr. Hecker said the "charismatic and very genuine" Mrs. Thomas is not seen that way among activists.

The New York Times

Although in modern times often dismissed as an "honorary degree," in fact his doctorate was a genuine academic degree awarded on the basis of his established reputation for learning in theology and his study at Paris, all confirmed by the genuine (but perhaps not very searching) oral examination administered before the award was made.

SEP

That was very genuine, I didn't know".

The Guardian - Sport

We decided it'd Buta good inea for him thatell us somomentrIes about being newly single and vaguely famous in NYC.

Vice

But it has to feel very genuine, and that's not easy in the dance world.

The New York Times - Arts

"He was humble, down to earth, a very genuine man who wasn't affected by fame or wealth.

BBC

Again it's very genuine, the idea here — it's not a strategy to avoid a potential fine; the regulator understands companies might need more time".

TechCrunch

"He's very genuine, extremely well-read libertarian, doesn't make any secret of it.

Huffington Post

It's not very often that you get to speak with an artist who expresses deep, genuine love for the city you're from.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing interactions or statements, use "not very genuine" to express a sense that something isn't entirely truthful or sincere, but avoid overusing it, opting for stronger synonyms when greater emphasis is needed.

Common error

Avoid using "not very genuine" excessively in formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise and nuanced language to convey the intended meaning, such as "insincere", "artificial", or "contrived", depending on the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not very genuine" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a deficiency in authenticity or sincerity. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Health Policy

5%

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "not very genuine" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase that conveys a lack of authenticity or sincerity. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. While not exceedingly common, it appears in diverse contexts, particularly in news, media, and scientific writing. When aiming for precision in formal writing, consider stronger synonyms like "insincere" or "artificial". Understanding its communicative purpose, register, and usage patterns enables effective deployment of this phrase in expressing subtle doubts or skepticism.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

somewhat insincere

Emphasizes a lack of sincerity to a moderate degree.

slightly artificial

Highlights the contrived or unnatural quality.

a bit disingenuous

Indicates a mild form of deception or insincerity.

lacking authenticity

Focuses on the absence of true or original qualities.

not entirely sincere

Suggests a partial lack of sincerity.

rather unconvincing

Highlights the failure to persuade or impress.

somewhat contrived

Emphasizes the deliberately created and unnatural aspect.

a little fake

Points to a lack of genuineness in a more direct way.

not quite authentic

Implies a deviation from being truly authentic.

questionable sincerity

Raises doubts about the honesty or genuineness.

FAQs

What does it mean to say something is "not very genuine"?

Saying something is "not very genuine" suggests it lacks authenticity or sincerity. It implies that something or someone is perhaps contrived or artificial, but "somewhat insincere" rather than completely fake.

What are some alternatives to using "not very genuine" in writing?

Depending on the specific context, you could use alternatives like "slightly artificial", "a bit disingenuous", or "lacking authenticity". The best choice will depend on the degree of insincerity you wish to convey.

Is "not very genuine" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "not very genuine" may be considered too informal for certain types of formal writing. In such cases, consider using "insincere", "contrived", or "artificial" for a more professional tone.

How does "not very genuine" differ from "fake" or "false"?

"Not very genuine" suggests a milder form of inauthenticity than "fake" or "false". While "fake" and "false" imply a deliberate attempt to deceive, "not very genuine" indicates a "questionable sincerity" or a lack of true qualities, without necessarily implying deception.