this why not

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this why not" is not correct in standard written English.
It seems to be an incomplete thought or a misphrasing, and it does not convey a clear meaning. Example: "I was thinking about going to the party, and this why not could be a good reason to join."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

And if you don't do this, why not?

The New York Times

You have all winter to debate this, why not start now.

The New York Times

Given this, why not ramp up public investments in this area?

The Guardian - Business

If you lived through this, why not just go ahead, guys, go for it.

The New York Times

If they have strong ideas on this why not enter The Peer Factor.

The Guardian

The idea is this: Why not make a wireless headphone that connects by Wi-Fi instead Bluetooth?

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

Kovacevich says the real benefit of all this why-not thinking is that it gives Wells employees a sense of control and tells them their hard work is appreciated.

Forbes

The SNP MP Ian Blackford asked why the Conservatives are bothering with all this - why not just create an English Parliament ? A. Good question.

Independent

This is why not many black-green coalitions are likely.

The Economist

At this rate, why not expect another reunion in 2013?

The New York Times

I'll leave you with this... Why not gather the most philanthropic, smartest and boldest minds to do what our forefathers did with the Declaration of Independence and write a Declaration of the World?

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you intend to express "Why not do this?", always ensure the question is grammatically correct to avoid confusion. The rephrased question invites discussion.

Common error

Avoid using the phrase "this why not" in formal writing. It's grammatically incorrect and may confuse readers. Instead, opt for the corrected form "why not this?" or other grammatically sound alternatives.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this why not" functions as an interrogative expression when used in contexts aiming to question the rationale behind an action or decision. However, it is considered grammatically incorrect. Ludwig AI confirms this assessment.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Wiki

17%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "this why not" appears in various online sources, it's generally considered grammatically incorrect. As Ludwig AI points out, it often serves as an incomplete interrogative expression. For clearer and more effective communication, replace it with grammatically sound alternatives such as "why not this?", or "what is the reason not to do this?". Using correct grammar ensures your message is understood as intended.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

why not this

Reverses the order of the words to create a question.

why not do this

Adds the verb "do" to clarify the intended action.

why shouldn't this be done

Expresses a sense of doubt or disbelief about the possibility of an action.

what is the reason not to do this

Poses a question seeking justification for inaction.

what are the reasons against this

Focuses on the negative aspects and potential problems.

is there a reason not to do this

Asks if there is a specific obstacle or issue to consider.

what's wrong with this

Highlights the presumed shortcomings or faults.

what's the downside of this

Concentrates on the potential disadvantages and risks.

what are the cons of this

Similar to 'what's the downside', but more direct.

are there disadvantages to this

Formal phrasing, emphasizing careful evaluation.

FAQs

What does "this why not" mean?

"This why not" is not grammatically correct. It appears to be an incomplete thought. A better way to phrase it is "why not this?" or "is there a reason not to do this?" depending on what you want to ask.

How can I use "this why not" correctly in a sentence?

The phrase "this why not" isn't grammatically correct. Consider using "why not this?" or rephrasing your question to be more direct.

What are alternatives to "this why not"?

Instead of "this why not", try "why not this?", "what is the reason not to do this?", or "is there a reason not to do this?". The best option depends on the specific context.

Is it okay to use "this why not" in writing?

It's generally best to avoid "this why not" in formal writing. It's grammatically incorrect and may confuse the readers. Instead, opt for grammatically correct forms such as "why not this?".