this is deceptive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this is deceptive" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate that something is misleading or not what it appears to be. Example: "The advertisement claims that the product is the best on the market, but this is deceptive as it lacks proper evidence."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

This is deceptive.

The New York Times - Arts

If the result seems effortless, this is deceptive.

The Guardian - Books

This is deceptive, for the plots in "Happiness, Like Water" are heated where the prose is not.

The New York Times - Books

This is deceptive, however: he would also impose a 10% "surtax" on families earning more than $450,000, so their top rate drops only to 35%.

The Economist

"Where these 'fuel surcharges' (or similar carrier-imposed surcharges) are listed separately and are not included in the basic fare presented to the public," the warning said, "this is deceptive...

The New York Times - Travel

Works by Cisneros can appear simple at first reading, but this is deceptive.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

The elevation of occasional stars from the periphery gave the illusion of a larger mainstream embrace, but this was deceptive.

The New York Times - Arts

But that is deceptive.

The Economist

But this number is deceptive.

The Economist

But this simplicity is deceptive.

The New Yorker

But this tranquillity is deceptive.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this is deceptive" when you want to clearly state that something presents a misleading appearance or impression. Ensure that the context provides sufficient evidence or reasoning to support your claim.

Common error

Avoid using "this is deceptive" without providing specific reasons or evidence. Simply stating that something is deceptive without justification can weaken your argument and make it seem biased.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this is deceptive" functions as a declarative statement. It serves to express that something gives a false or misleading impression. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "this is deceptive" is a grammatically correct and usable expression for highlighting misleading aspects. As Ludwig AI indicates, this expression serves to reveal that something gives a false impression. Commonly found in contexts like News & Media and Science, it maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse audiences. Alternatives include phrases like "this is misleading" or "this is not what it seems". When employing this phrase, it's best practice to provide supporting evidence to bolster your claim and avoid generalizations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this is misleading

Replaces "deceptive" with a more straightforward term for misdirection.

this is not what it seems

Emphasizes the difference between appearance and reality.

this is a facade

Highlights the superficial and potentially false nature of something.

this is a sham

Suggests a deliberate attempt to trick or deceive.

this is a charade

Implies a pretense or act put on to deceive.

this is a fallacy

Indicates a flawed or misleading argument.

this is illusory

Focuses on the deceptive nature of an illusion.

this is camouflage

Emphasizes the act of disguising true intentions or reality.

this is a delusion

Highlights a false belief or misapprehension.

this is smoke and mirrors

Suggests a trick or deception used to obscure the truth.

FAQs

How can I use "this is deceptive" in a sentence?

Use "this is deceptive" to point out that something isn't what it seems. For instance, "The company's claim of being eco-friendly "this is deceptive" because they continue to pollute the river".

What are some alternatives to "this is deceptive"?

Consider using phrases like "this is misleading", "this is not what it seems", or "this is a facade" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "this is deceptive" or "this is deceiving"?

"This is deceptive" is generally preferred as it directly describes the situation or information as being misleading. "Deceiving" is an adjective that describes someone or something that is actively trying to deceive. Thus, ""this is deceptive"" is more direct.

When should I avoid using "this is deceptive"?

Avoid using "this is deceptive" if you lack evidence to support your claim. Instead, use phrases like "it appears deceptive" or "it might be deceptive" to express uncertainty or suspicion without making a definitive accusation.