be not 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.
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2015 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
not the word for it
not an adequate or appropriate description. 1992 European Travel & Life The landscape of Alaska has the power to overwhelm. ‘Beautiful’ is not the word for it.
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017
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!Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017