this will not do

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this will not do" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you want to express dissatisfaction or disapproval with something. It implies that something is not up to a standard or expectation. Example sentence: "I asked for a well-done steak, but this overcooked and tough piece of meat will not do."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

This will not do.

The Guardian - Books

This will not do, at all.

The New Yorker

This will not do any good to the people.

The New York Times

In the city of Chris Rock, Joseph Heller and Lenny Bruce, this will not do.

The New York Times - Magazine

This will not do," while putting the sheet down in front of me.

The New Yorker

"I am not the sort of person that does this, but this comes from a core place that tells me this will not do," Ms. Rosales said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

This time, Dijsselbloem replied, "That will not do".

The New Yorker

They quoted this "leader" as saying, "this clearly will not do it".

The New York Times

This really will not do.

The New York Times

This simply will not do.

The Guardian

This explanation will not do.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this will not do" to express firm disapproval or to indicate that something is simply not acceptable given the circumstances or requirements.

Common error

While versatile, avoid using "this will not do" too frequently in casual conversations. Simpler expressions like "that's not okay" or "that's not going to work" may be more appropriate for informal contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this will not do" functions as an evaluative expression, used to convey disapproval, rejection, or the unacceptability of a situation, object, or action. Ludwig's examples show its application in diverse contexts, from critiquing analysis to expressing dissatisfaction with progress.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this will not do" is a versatile phrase used to express disapproval or unacceptability. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. Its frequency is classified as 'common', appearing mainly in News & Media and Science contexts. When a more direct alternative is needed, phrases like "this is unacceptable" or "this won't suffice", offer similar meaning. Bear in mind the register of "this will not do" which tends to be neutral to formal. Therefore, it would be wise to select alternatives in casual settings. Overall, understanding the nuances of "this will not do" allows for effective communication when expressing dissatisfaction and demanding improvement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

This is unacceptable

Directly states that something is not acceptable.

This is inadequate

Indicates that something does not meet the required standard.

This is insufficient

Suggests that something is not enough to fulfill a need or requirement.

This won't suffice

Implies that something is not good enough or suitable.

This isn't good enough

Expresses a lack of satisfaction with the quality or outcome.

This is not up to par

Indicates that something doesn't meet the expected level or standard.

This falls short

Suggests that something fails to reach a desired goal or standard.

This doesn't cut it

Informal way of saying something is not good enough.

This is out of the question

Indicates that something is not a possibility or option.

That's not going to fly

Informal way of expressing that something is unacceptable or will not work.

FAQs

How can I use "this will not do" in a sentence?

You can use "this will not do" to express that something is unacceptable or insufficient. For example, "The quality of this work is poor; "this will not do".".

What are some alternatives to "this will not do"?

Alternatives include phrases like "this is unacceptable", "this is inadequate", or "this won't suffice", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "this will not do"?

"This will not do" is appropriate in situations where you need to firmly express that something is not meeting the required standard or is otherwise unacceptable. It can be used in formal and informal settings, though it is generally more common in formal contexts.

What does "this will not do" imply?

It implies that a situation, action, or object is not good enough or suitable for a specific purpose or standard. It often suggests a need for improvement or change.