Meaning & use
not fancy
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Meanings
phrasefixed phrase
Simple and plain; not decorated or complicated.
Grammar: Used as an adjective phrase after a linking verb like 'be' or 'look'.
Patterns
- be not fancy
- look not fancy
- not fancy but good
The wedding was not fancy, but everyone had a good time.
We stayed at a not fancy hotel near the beach.
phrasefixed phrase
Not elaborate or high-class; basic or ordinary.
Grammar: Often used to describe food, clothing, or events.
Patterns
- not fancy food
- not fancy clothes
- not fancy restaurant
She likes not fancy clothes; she prefers jeans and T-shirts.
The restaurant is not fancy, but the food is great.
Common combinations
- not fancy at all
- The party was not fancy at all; just close friends.
- not fancy but comfortable
- The room was not fancy but comfortable.
- not fancy enough
- The dress is not fancy enough for a formal dinner.
Synonyms and how they differ
- plain
- Similar, but 'plain' often suggests lack of decoration; 'not fancy' is more general.
- simple
- Focuses on lack of complexity; 'not fancy' focuses on lack of luxury.
- basic
- Emphasizes minimal features; 'not fancy' is about style or elegance.
Opposites
Commonly confused: not fancy or fancy?
not fancy vs fancy
'Fancy' means decorated or elaborate; 'not fancy' means the opposite.
Practice
What does 'not fancy' mean in 'The restaurant was not fancy'?
Choose one answer.
'Not fancy' means simple and plain. The other options describe fancy things.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “not fancy”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.