simply wrong

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "simply wrong" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when someone presents an idea or opinion that is clearly incorrect. For example, "Your logic here is simply wrong."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This is simply wrong.

The New York Times

That's simply wrong".

The New York Times

It's been simply wrong.

Independent

Their behaviour was simply wrong".

Independent

That suggestion is simply wrong".

Independent

He was simply wrong.

The Guardian - Opinion

allocations is simply wrong.

The New York Times

It's that simply wrong.

The New Yorker

McCain: That is simply wrong.

The New Yorker

That's simply wrong, of course.

The Washington Post

This is quite simply wrong.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "simply wrong" to directly and clearly express disagreement with a statement or idea. This phrase is most effective when the error is obvious or easily proven.

Common error

Avoid using "simply wrong" when addressing complex or subjective topics. This phrase is best suited for situations where the incorrectness is clear and objective, not a matter of opinion or interpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "simply wrong" functions as an adverbial modifier intensifying the adjective "wrong". It serves to express strong disagreement or contradiction, indicating that a statement or idea is not just incorrect, but clearly and obviously so. As Ludwig AI explains, it's often used to directly and clearly express disagreement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Academia

32%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "simply wrong" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to express strong disagreement with a statement or idea. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is most effective when used to address clear and obvious errors. Usage patterns indicate that it's frequently found in News & Media and Academia, showing its utility in both journalistic and academic discourse. While straightforward, writers should be aware of the importance of using it in context, mainly, avoiding overusing it in complex situations. Consider using alternatives such as "patently false" or "demonstrably false" depending on the desired nuance and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

plainly incorrect

Emphasizes the straightforward and obvious nature of the error.

patently false

Highlights that the statement is demonstrably untrue or based on false information.

categorically untrue

Indicates a strong and unambiguous denial of the truth of the statement.

utterly mistaken

Focuses on the complete and total nature of the error or misunderstanding.

completely erroneous

Highlights that the statement deviates from accuracy and truth.

wholly inaccurate

Indicates that the entire statement is incorrect or contains errors.

entirely fallacious

Suggests that the statement is based on flawed logic or reasoning.

demonstrably false

Emphasizes that the statement can be proven to be untrue with evidence.

indisputably incorrect

Highlights that there is no room for debate or disagreement about the error.

blatantly untrue

Emphasizes the obvious and conspicuous nature of the falsehood.

FAQs

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

You can use "simply wrong" to express disagreement with a statement you believe is incorrect. For example, "The assumption that all renewable energy is too expensive is "simply wrong"."

What are some alternatives to "simply wrong"?

Alternatives to "simply wrong" include "patently false", "completely erroneous", or "demonstrably false", depending on the context and the level of emphasis you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "simply wrong"?

It is appropriate to use "simply wrong" when you believe a statement is factually incorrect and you want to express your disagreement directly. However, be mindful of the tone and consider whether a more nuanced approach is needed depending on the context.

What is the difference between "simply wrong" and "utterly mistaken"?

"Simply wrong" is a general expression of disagreement with a factual statement. "Utterly mistaken" emphasizes the degree to which someone is incorrect. The choice depends on the level of emphasis you want to convey.