this is fatuous

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this is fatuous" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something as silly, foolish, or lacking in substance, often in a critical context. Example: "The argument presented in the meeting was so poorly thought out that I couldn't help but think, this is fatuous."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

This is fatuous.

Independent

This is fatuous nonsense.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

"To put the blame of this situation on renewable energy is fatuous at best and downright misleading at worst.

The Guardian

In this respect, the idea of "saving for the nation" is fatuous, jingoistic nonsense.

The Guardian - Arts

Most of the changes so rung in this film are little more than cartoons, and the message is fatuous: rock is there to challenge "the man," primarily represented by Joan Cusack as a principal who's a closet Stevie Nicks wannabe.

The New York Times

This word, with its specific connotations of duty towards the dead, is fatuous when applied to any historical event from 200 years ago.

The Guardian - Arts

Free is fatuous.

The Guardian

Such denigration of the English is fatuous.

The Guardian - Opinion

The government's argument for deterrence is fatuous.

Independent

One blast might have been profound; 30 is fatuous.

The Guardian - Arts

It is fatuous to allow political correctness to pollute reasoned argument.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this is fatuous" to directly and critically assess an idea or argument as lacking substance or being foolish. It's most effective when the speaker wants to express disagreement or dismissal.

Common error

Avoid using "this is fatuous" in casual conversations or informal writing. Its somewhat formal tone can sound overly critical or pretentious in such settings. Opt for simpler, more direct expressions like "that's silly" or "that's ridiculous".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this is fatuous" primarily functions as a declarative statement used to express a critical judgment. As Ludwig AI confirms, it describes something as silly, foolish, or lacking substance. Examples show its use in dismissing arguments or ideas deemed inadequate.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "this is fatuous" is a grammatically sound and usable expression for critically dismissing ideas or arguments. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriateness for describing something as silly or lacking substance. While its usage is not frequent, primarily appearing in news and media contexts, it carries a formal tone best suited for expressing disagreement with a sense of intellectual judgment. Remember to consider the context and audience before using this phrase, as simpler alternatives may be more suitable for informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this is absurd

Emphasizes the illogical or unreasonable nature of something.

this is ridiculous

Highlights the silliness or laughable quality of something.

this is nonsensical

Focuses on the lack of meaning or coherence.

this is pointless

Highlights the lack of purpose or value.

this is meaningless

Emphasizes the lack of significance or importance.

this is inane

Stresses the emptiness or silliness of something.

this is asinine

Highlights the stupidity or foolishness of something.

this is frivolous

Focuses on the lack of seriousness or importance.

this is preposterous

Highlights the absurdity and outrageousness of something.

this is ludicrous

Emphasizes the laughable or ridiculous nature of something.

FAQs

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

You can use "this is fatuous" to express disagreement with an idea or argument that you consider silly or lacking substance. For example, "To suggest that this policy will solve all our problems "this is fatuous"."

What can I say instead of "this is fatuous"?

You can use alternatives like "this is absurd", "this is ridiculous", or "this is nonsensical" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "this is fatuous" in formal writing?

Yes, "this is fatuous" is appropriate in formal writing when you want to critically assess an idea or argument as lacking substance or being foolish. However, be mindful of your audience and the overall tone of your writing.

What's the difference between "this is fatuous" and "this is absurd"?

While both phrases express disagreement, "this is fatuous" suggests a lack of substance or foolishness, while "this is absurd" implies illogicality or unreasonableness. The choice depends on the specific aspect you want to criticize.