Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
xx xx
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "xx xx" is not correct or usable in written English as it lacks meaning and context.
It cannot be used in any meaningful way without additional information or context to clarify its intent. Example: "The code is represented as xx xx, which needs to be decoded."
⚠ May contain grammatical issues
Science
News & Media
Wiki
Alternative expressions(4)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
18 human-written examples
articulata Vahl Iran xx xx x x ?
Science
xx xx x xxx xx xx x3 xx3 xx3 x3 Tamarix sp. Gansu, China ?
Science
Uzbekistan x xxx xx x x xx xx xx Tamarix sp. Uzbekistan ?
Science
From: XXXXX XXXXX <[email protected]> Date: XXXXXXX XX, 2008 X:XX:XX AM PDT Subject: Re: Google Opportunities- Follow up email….
News & Media
Iran x x xx xx xx xx x xx 10050-15 Iran x x xxx x x 10050-25 Iran x x xxx trace x xx Unless otherwise indicated, all glycosides and sulfates are attached at the flavonol 3-hydroxy group.
Science
Subjects were described as XX, xx, PP, pp, homozygotes; and Xx or Pp heterozygotes.
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
42 human-written examples
[O'Dwyer T, Monaghan A, Moran J, O'Shea F, Wilson F (2016) Behaviour change intervention increases physical activity, spinal mobility and quality of life in adults with ankylosing spondylitis: a randomised trial. Journal of Physiotherapy XX: XX-XX].
Science
The up- and downstream sequences of PgiC2, PgiC1 and of PgiC from P. palustris have been deposited in GenBank (accession no. xx-xx).
Science
RR XX 95% CI XX-XX, NNT XX 95% CI XX-XX fording for this project has been acquired from Leeds Health Authority to cover costs of employing a part time Trial Co-ordinator.
Science
Within our local context, anecdotal reports suggest that the phrase 'based on your pre-pregnancy weight, you should aim to gain xx-xx kg for the healthiest pregnancy possible' is well received by pregnant women.
Science
Results of the overall population revealed that XbaI XX homozygotes present a roughly 1.67-fold higher risk of developing periodontitis than subjects with the xx genotype and 2.07-fold higher risk than carriers with Xx and xx genotypes.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Avoid using "xx xx" in formal writing. It is ambiguous and lacks a clear, established meaning. Instead, use specific terms or placeholders that accurately convey your intended meaning, such as "placeholder value" or "missing information".
Common error
Don't assume readers will understand "xx xx" as a placeholder. Always clarify the intended meaning with descriptive labels or comments.
Source & Trust
76%
Authority and reliability
2.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "xx xx" primarily functions as a placeholder or marker for missing or unspecified information. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is not correct or usable in written English without additional context. It appears in code snippets, data tables, and general text where information has been intentionally omitted or is yet to be determined.
Frequent in
Science
50%
Wiki
25%
News & Media
25%
Less common in
Formal & Business
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Social Media
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "xx xx" is an ambiguous phrase primarily used as a placeholder for missing or redacted information. Ludwig AI flags it as incorrect without additional context. Its informal nature and lack of precision make it unsuitable for formal writing. When you need to denote missing information, it’s best to replace it with more explicit alternatives like "unspecified data" or "placeholder value". While it appears across a range of sources, including scientific and media outlets, its presence does not indicate grammatical correctness or best practice.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
Placeholder value
Indicates a generic substitute for actual data or information.
Missing information
Refers to the absence of required details.
Unspecified data
Highlights that certain data points are not defined.
Redacted content
Denotes text that has been intentionally removed or obscured.
Variable assignment
Implies the process of assigning a value to a variable.
Dummy text
Represents nonsensical or placeholder text used for layout purposes.
Generic identifier
Indicates a standard or non-specific label.
Sample data
Refers to data used for testing or demonstration purposes.
Arbitrary value
Suggests a value chosen without any particular reason or pattern.
Temporary label
Highlights the provisional nature of a label or designation.
FAQs
What does "xx xx" usually mean?
The meaning of "xx xx" is heavily context-dependent, often serving as a placeholder for omitted or unspecified data. Without further context, it's difficult to determine its precise meaning. Consider alternatives like "missing information" or "placeholder value" to increase clarity.
When is it appropriate to use "xx xx"?
Using "xx xx" is generally discouraged in formal writing due to its ambiguity. It might be acceptable in technical contexts where it's pre-defined as a placeholder or when redacting sensitive information. However, clear communication should always be prioritized. Provide explanations for any placeholders used.
How can I avoid ambiguity when using placeholders like "xx xx"?
To avoid ambiguity, provide context or a key explaining the placeholders you use. For example, state that "xx" represents redacted data or a missing value. Alternatively, use more descriptive placeholders, such as "unspecified data" or "redacted content".
What are some formal alternatives to "xx xx"?
In formal writing, replace "xx xx" with precise terms that accurately describe the missing information. Options include "unspecified data", "omitted details", or "redacted information", depending on the specific context.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
76%
Authority and reliability
2.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested