are being distributed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are being distributed" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use this phrase to indicate that a particular item or document is being assigned, shared, or sent out in some way. For example, "Vouchers are being distributed to all qualifying households."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They are being distributed today.

The New York Times

More detectors are being distributed each month.

The New Yorker

Packs are being distributed via hard copy and electronic means.

The Guardian

These materials are being distributed throughout the country.

The Washington Post

Water filters are being distributed for free throughout the city.

The Washington Post

Dosimeters are being distributed free to residents who return.

Independent

Some primary schools are holding classes, and the first paychecks for government workers are being distributed.

The New York Times

These are being distributed to rural schools in eight countries in southern Africa.

The Guardian

Information packs are being distributed to 35,000 schools and colleges in the UK.

The Guardian

The supplies are being distributed by Food for the Poor, a local non-governmental organization.

Princeton University

Nimble, spontaneous, and creative, small maker spaces are being distributed stratigically throughout the school.

Columbia University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Prefer active voice where possible to make the sentence more concise and direct.

Common error

Avoid overuse of the passive voice. While "are being distributed" is grammatically correct, using the active voice (e.g., "we are distributing") often makes sentences more direct and impactful. Over-reliance on passive voice can lead to wordy and less engaging writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are being distributed" functions as a passive verb phrase. It indicates that the subject of the sentence is receiving the action of being distributed, rather than performing the action itself. Ludwig's examples confirm its use in describing the dissemination of various items or resources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Formal & Business

28%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "are being distributed" is a grammatically correct and widely used passive verb phrase that describes the process of something being allocated or spread out. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and provides numerous examples across diverse contexts. While the phrase is appropriate for formal and neutral communication, consider using the active voice when possible for greater clarity and impact. Key alternatives include "are being allocated", "are being disseminated", and "are being provided", each offering subtle differences in meaning. Remember to clearly identify what is being distributed and to whom or where to ensure clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are being allocated

Focuses on the assignment of resources to specific purposes or recipients.

are being disseminated

Emphasizes the wide spreading of information or materials.

are being provided

Highlights the act of supplying or furnishing something needed.

are being supplied

Similar to 'provided', but often implies a more ongoing or consistent provision.

are being issued

Implies a formal release or granting of something, such as permits or statements.

are being dispatched

Suggests the sending of goods or personnel to a specific location.

are being administered

Highlights the management and distribution of resources or processes.

are being circulated

Focuses on the movement of something among a group or area.

are undergoing distribution

More formal and emphasizes the process of distribution itself.

are in the process of distribution

Similar to 'undergoing distribution', but adds a sense of ongoing action.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "are being distributed" to sound more active?

Consider using the active voice instead. For example, instead of "Supplies are being distributed", try "We are distributing supplies" or "The organization distributes supplies". This makes the sentence more direct and emphasizes the actor.

What's the difference between "are being distributed" and "are being allocated"?

"Are being distributed" generally refers to the act of spreading or giving out items. "Are being allocated" implies a more specific assignment or designation of resources for a particular purpose or recipient.

Is it ever better to use the active voice instead of "are being distributed"?

Yes, using the active voice is often preferable for clarity and conciseness. For example, "The company is distributing flyers" is more direct than "Flyers are being distributed by the company". Use the passive voice when the actor is unknown or unimportant.

What are some other alternatives for "are being distributed" that maintain a formal tone?

Alternatives such as "are being disseminated", "are being issued", or "are being provided" can also convey the meaning in a formal context.