not so encouraging vs not encouraging

Both "not so encouraging" and "not encouraging" are correct phrases, but they are used in slightly different contexts. "Not so encouraging" implies a lesser degree of discouragement compared to "not encouraging." The choice between the two depends on the level of negativity you want to convey.

Last updated: March 23, 2024 • 3236 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to indicate a less positive or motivating situation.

"not so encouraging "

This phrase is used to express a situation that is somewhat discouraging or lacking in positive aspects. It implies a moderate level of negativity.

Examples:

The test results were not so encouraging, but there is room for improvement.
Her reaction to the news was not so encouraging, but we can work on changing her mind.
The feedback on the project was not so encouraging, so we need to rethink our approach.
The response from the audience was not so encouraging, but we can try a different strategy.
The initial sales figures were not so encouraging, but we expect them to pick up soon.

Show examples from the web [+]

Many publishers were not quite so encouraging, one large children's publisher ironically saying that they didn't work with children - children's publisher not working with children?
It was very timeconsuming trying to persuade them and so on, but at the end of the day the result was not particularly encouraging and so we are back to the other possibility again.
And they were all so encouraging.
Lucky that you've got a wife that's so encouraging.
It's so encouraging to see someone happily married around here.
Introduction of incentives to digitise works and create promotional and publicity material in digital form, so encouraging European companies (suppliers of on-line access,
Universities are the cornerstone of our societies, so encouraging universities, students and teachers to forge closer links and share experiences will play a crucial role in enriching our societies.
However, in addition to that, this proposal will have a positive impact on private actors and on the public authorities, and will also allow newly developed fibres to be developed, so encouraging innovation in the textile and clothing sector.
But it was an encouraging failure.
Probably because I anticipated this warm and encouraging response.
I feel terrible encouraging Lauren to invite her mother.
As regards encouraging innovation, research spending remains inadequate.
You realize what you're encouraging here.
Simplifying and encouraging the transfer of business ownership.
- encouraging good cooperation between their competent national authorities and Europol.
Encouraging research, for example into medical applications of nanotechnologies and nanomaterials.
Copyright is a fundamental tool for encouraging creativity.
We are therefore encouraging industry to introduce this standard voluntarily.
Encouraging greater competition is an enormous task.
Commissioner, your reply was very encouraging.

Alternatives:

somewhat discouraging
moderately discouraging
slightly discouraging
not very encouraging
a bit discouraging

This phrase is also correct and commonly used in English to indicate a lack of positive or motivating elements.

"not encouraging"

This phrase is used to express a situation that is discouraging or lacking in positive aspects. It implies a stronger level of negativity compared to "not so encouraging."

Examples:

The lack of progress is not encouraging for the project's success.
His behavior towards his teammates is not encouraging for team spirit.
The company's financial situation is not encouraging for potential investors.
The teacher's feedback on the assignment was not encouraging, so I need to improve.
The constant delays are not encouraging for the completion of the construction project.

Show examples from the web [+]

However, current tendencies are not encouraging.
I'm not encouraging it, but, yes.
I'm afraid the test results from our earlier appointment were not encouraging.
No, no, first impressions are not encouraging.
From a tactical point of view, the options are not encouraging.
Actually, diagnostics are not encouraging, Captain.
What I dug up is not encouraging.
Where there was consultation, the results were not encouraging.
Our knowledge and experience to date, especially off Newfoundland, is not encouraging.
Moreover, aside from the nuclear dossier, the news is not encouraging either.
From a global point of view the situation around the world is not encouraging.
The answer to crime is not encouraging xenophobia, discrimination and stigmatisation of nationalities or ethnic origins.
It is not encouraging because Bruce saw Jack at half past three.
We're not encouraging this kind of behavior.
The outlook is not encouraging (only 48 of the 148 members have submitted preliminary offers).
Mr President, ladies and gentlemen, the latest news from France is not encouraging.
The signals reaching us on the eve of the European Council in Dublin are not encouraging.
With regard to climate change, the result was not encouraging, despite the efforts of the Union.
These divergences in the appreciation of the parties who will have to pronounce themselves on the IGC are not encouraging.
Why is the Council not encouraging Afghan farmers to switch production from poppies to grapes?

Alternatives:

discouraging
uninspiring
disheartening
demotivating
not motivating

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not so encouraging vs not encouraging