simply untrue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "simply untrue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a statement or claim that is not true in a straightforward manner. Example: "The assertion that the earth is flat is simply untrue; extensive scientific evidence supports its round shape."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That is simply untrue.

Independent

That's simply untrue.

Independent

But that's simply untrue.

The New York Times

This is simply untrue.

The New York Times

This claim is simply untrue.

The New York Times

Gumbel says, "That's simply untrue.

The New Yorker

This is, quite simply, untrue.

The New York Times

The latter is simply untrue.

The Guardian

This contention is simply untrue.

The Guardian

Her ads are simply untrue.

The New York Times

This fear-mongering is simply untrue.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "simply untrue" when you want to directly and clearly contradict a statement without implying malicious intent. It's a neutral way to express disagreement.

Common error

While "simply untrue" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in highly formal or academic writing. Consider alternatives like "factually inaccurate" or "demonstrably false" for a more professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "simply untrue" functions as an adjectival phrase that modifies a noun (often an assertion, claim, or statement). It serves to emphatically deny the validity of the noun it modifies. As Ludwig confirms, this phrase is perfectly correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Formal & Business

3%

Science

2%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "simply untrue" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to directly contradict a statement. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. While generally neutral, more formal alternatives may be suitable in certain contexts. It is most frequently found in News & Media, offering a clear and unambiguous way to express disagreement. When aiming for clarity and directness, "simply untrue" serves as an effective tool to express a statement's lack of truth.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

patently false

Replaces "simply" with "patently", emphasizing the obviousness of the falsehood.

categorically false

Replaces "simply" with "categorically", suggesting a strong and absolute denial.

demonstrably false

Implies that the untruth can be proven or shown to be false.

blatantly untrue

Replaces "simply" with "blatantly", highlighting the obvious and shameless nature of the falsehood.

utterly false

Emphasizes the complete and absolute nature of the untruth.

completely false

A more straightforward synonym, indicating a total lack of truth.

flatly untrue

Suggests a direct and unequivocal denial.

unquestionably false

Indicates that the untruth is beyond any doubt.

factually incorrect

Focuses on the discrepancy with established facts.

nowhere near the truth

Emphasizes how far removed the statement is from reality.

FAQs

How can I use "simply untrue" in a sentence?

You can use "simply untrue" to directly contradict a statement. For example, "The claim that all politicians are corrupt is "simply untrue"."

What's a more formal alternative to "simply untrue"?

Alternatives like "factually inaccurate", "demonstrably false", or "categorically false" may be more appropriate in formal contexts.

Is "simply untrue" the same as "false"?

While similar, "simply untrue" adds emphasis. Saying something is ""simply untrue"" suggests there's no complexity or ambiguity – it's a straightforward falsehood.

Can "simply untrue" be used in all situations?

While generally acceptable, consider your audience and context. In highly formal or sensitive situations, a more nuanced or diplomatic phrasing might be preferable.