not be the word for it

be not the word for it

Of a word or phrase, to not fully or adequately describe something. Angry? Angry isn't the word for it—I'm blinded with rage! Bad isn't the word for what they've done. It's despicable. She isn't doing well at all. Grief isn't the word for it—it's more like complete devastation and despair.

See also: for, not, word

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

not be the ˈword for it

used to say that a word or an expression does not describe something fully or strongly enough: Unkind isn’t the word for it! I’ve never seen anyone treat an animal so cruelly!

See also: for, not, word

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017