not without interest

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not without interest" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is intriguing or noteworthy, even if it may not be entirely positive or favorable. Example: "The documentary was not without interest, as it provided a unique perspective on the subject matter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Books

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

The subject is not without interest, but it's small.

The New York Times - Arts

The treatments are good-natured and not without interest although sometimes modest to a fault.

The New York Times

Though the Register is not very informative, it is not without interest.

The Guardian

"I won't hide it, this person is not without interest for me.

The Guardian

They are sadly a tiresome pair, though the casting is not without interest.

The Guardian - Film

Historical analogies are a reach, though they are not without interest.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

Most encouraging of all, some wealthy Africans, renowned for shipping money abroad, are starting to invest it at home.Besides, America is not without interests in Africa.

The Economist

The idea behind it isn't without interest.

The Guardian - Film

Yet this complacent goblet of patriarchy is not totally without interest.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The meager physical comedy is overextended, though as an early example of the sado-masochistic relationships in later Polanski, it's not entirely without interest.

The New York Times

And, while this 1965 two-hander is not without historical interest, it suffers from Fugard's desire to invest every moment with overwrought significance.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "not without interest" to introduce a subject that may not be immediately captivating but has underlying value or intrigue. It softens potentially negative initial impressions.

Common error

Avoid using "not without interest" too frequently, as it can dilute its impact and make your writing sound hesitant or lacking conviction. Choose more direct expressions when appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not without interest" functions as a form of understatement, technically called litotes. It affirms something by negating its contrary. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and found in reliable sources.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Arts

20%

Books

8%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "not without interest" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression used to convey a measured degree of intrigue or significance. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and presence in reliable sources. While not the most direct way to express interest, it serves to soften potential criticisms or introduce a topic that may not be immediately captivating but possesses underlying value. Its neutral register makes it suitable for news, arts, and book reviews, adding a touch of sophistication to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not entirely uninteresting

Emphasizes the presence of interest by negating the opposite.

not devoid of merit

Similar in structure but emphasizes the presence of positive qualities.

not without its merits

Highlights the positive qualities.

somewhat interesting

More direct and less subtle in expressing interest.

holds a degree of fascination

Highlights the captivating or intriguing aspect.

presents some intrigue

Focuses on the mysterious or puzzling quality.

has elements of intrigue

Emphasizes the presence of elements that arouse curiosity or interest.

has some appeal

Focuses on the attractiveness or engaging quality.

possesses a certain charm

Highlights the pleasing or attractive quality.

offers something of value

Stresses the beneficial or worthwhile aspect.

FAQs

What does "not without interest" mean?

The phrase "not without interest" means that something has some level of intrigue, value, or importance, even if it's not immediately obvious or overwhelmingly positive. It suggests a nuanced assessment rather than outright dismissal.

How can I use "not without interest" in a sentence?

You can use "not without interest" to describe a topic, idea, or object that possesses a certain degree of appeal or significance. For example: "The historical analogies are a reach, though they are "not without interest"."

What are some alternatives to "not without interest"?

Alternatives include "somewhat interesting", "has some appeal", or "not entirely uninteresting". The choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is "not without interest" a formal or informal expression?

"Not without interest" leans towards the formal side but is appropriate for neutral writing. It's less common in casual conversation, where simpler phrases might be preferred.