that is unsatisfactory

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that is unsatisfactory" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express dissatisfaction or disappointment with a situation, response, or outcome. Example: "The results of the survey were disappointing, and I must say that is unsatisfactory for our team's goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

E: Earned by work that is unsatisfactory and unworthy of course credit.

Harvard University

"We need to find a form of words that is unsatisfactory for all but which is not unacceptable.

The Guardian

D+, D, and D–: Earned by work that is unsatisfactory but that indicates some minimal command of the course materials and some minimal participation in class activities that is worthy of course credit.

Harvard University

Their disagreement indicates a parent child relation that is unsatisfactory for both sides.

Comparative Migration Studies

"Fewer than half of secondary schools are good or better [compared to the previous year] and the proportion that is unsatisfactory has increased from one in seven to one in four," the Estyn report said.

BBC

Schools inspectorate Estyn's annual report said: "Fewer than half of secondary schools are good or better [compared to the previous year] and the proportion that is unsatisfactory has increased from one in seven to one in four.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Yet there was much about the process that was unsatisfactory.

Independent

Leaving an earlier self behind, you can "stop taking the blame for things that were unsatisfactory," Dr. Ross said, explaining: "You can say 'That was the old me.

The New York Times - Health

The reasons include working hours that are unsatisfactory to prospective employees, distant locations and a dearth of sector-specific skills.

Forbes

Applying Maggiori's procedure to a trade-weighted Swiss franc exchange rate index and the EUR/CHF exchange rate, I expected to find similar patterns, but found results that are unsatisfactory.

Swiss Journal of Economics and Statistics

Development of awareness and empathy was not enough to provide care that was satisfactory to clients in the context of working conditions that were unsatisfactory to nurses.

Human Resources for Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "that is unsatisfactory" to express a formal disapproval or disappointment, especially when providing feedback or assessing performance in academic or professional settings.

Common error

Avoid using "that is unsatisfactory" in casual conversations; opt for simpler, more direct phrases like "that's not good enough" or "I'm not happy with that" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that is unsatisfactory" functions as a predicative expression, typically following a linking verb (e.g., "is", "seems"), to describe a subject as not meeting a desired standard or expectation. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability and common use.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Academia

30%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "that is unsatisfactory" is a grammatically sound phrase used to express disapproval or disappointment. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability. While adaptable, it's more suited to formal contexts like academic writing or professional communications. For casual settings, consider more direct alternatives. Examples across news, academic, and scientific sources illustrate its broad applicability, though careful consideration of register ensures effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that's not good enough

Expresses a similar sentiment of inadequacy but is more direct and less formal.

that's simply not acceptable

Conveys a stronger sense of disapproval and indicates a boundary has been crossed.

that doesn't meet expectations

Focuses on a failure to reach a required standard or level.

that falls short of the mark

Implies a failure to achieve a specific goal or target.

that's below par

Suggests a performance or quality that is lower than the usual standard.

that leaves much to be desired

Indicates that there are significant shortcomings and a need for improvement.

that's just not up to scratch

A more colloquial way of saying something is not good enough, indicating a failure to meet the required standard.

that is hardly ideal

Understates the dissatisfaction, suggesting a less than perfect situation without being overly critical.

that is far from perfect

Emphasizes the imperfection of the situation, highlighting the distance from a desired state.

that's regrettable

Focuses on the disappointment associated with a situation, expressing sorrow or regret.

FAQs

How can I use "that is unsatisfactory" in a sentence?

You can use "that is unsatisfactory" to express disappointment or disapproval. For example, "The test results were lower than expected; "that is unsatisfactory"." or "The quality of the work submitted "that is unsatisfactory" and needs revisions."

What are some alternatives to "that is unsatisfactory"?

Alternatives include "that is unacceptable", "that is inadequate", or "that does not meet expectations". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality required.

Is "that is unsatisfactory" too formal for everyday conversation?

While grammatically correct, "that is unsatisfactory" can sound overly formal in casual settings. Consider using phrases like "that's not good enough" or "I'm not happy with that" for everyday conversations.

When is it appropriate to use "that is unsatisfactory" in writing?

It is suitable for formal writing, such as academic papers, professional reports, or official correspondence, where a measured and precise expression of disappointment is required.