Not quite the thing

usgb
phrase

Not exactly right or suitable.

His performance in the match was not quite the thing we were expecting.
Visual representation of "not quite the thing" - Not exactly right or suitable

Often appears as...

  • not quite the thing for
  • not quite the thing i expected

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "not quite the thing"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Subtlety

'Not quite the thing' adds a gentle touch to criticism, softening the impact.

Illustration for Subtlety
Your essay is well-written but not quite the thing for this competition's theme.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Expectation Gap

Use when something is close to what was expected but still misses the mark.

Illustration for Expectation Gap
The new policy is not quite the thing we hoped for to address the issues.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Cultural Fit

It can highlight a mismatch with social or cultural norms or expectations.

Illustration for Cultural Fit
Wearing a casual outfit to the gala was not quite the thing.
Visual representation of the word "Not quite the thing"

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