I just used this expression in a mail: "I am not so much worried as perplexed." Although I know this sentence is grammatical, I am not sure at all if this sentence is easily understood in a casual conversation. How do you native speakers think? I would appreciate your opinions! One more thing: if I say, "I am not so much worried, but perplexed," does it make sense? Anonymous "I am not so much worried as perplexed." Although I know this sentence is grammatical, I am not sure at all if this sentence is easily understood in a casual conversation. How do you native speakers think? I would appreciate your opinions! It's fine as is. It will be easily understood in a casual conversation. I would not change it. Variants are possible by leaving out much or by adding I am again after as . All variants are acceptable and understandable in casual conversation. Jake is not so (much) curious as (he is) obnoxious. This car is not so (much) luxurious as (it is) expensive. That novel is not so (much) intriguing as (it is) exhausting. Thank you, CJ! I've been thinking I just need to use this construction a lot more, in everyday situations, and you provided such good examples. I would love to make a pungent comment next time, using these sentences.... hmm. Ooohkay, I didn't expect this... but I think there is something quite fascinating about you, CJ. I don't know how to express that rare quality