are braced for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are braced for" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that someone is prepared for something challenging or difficult that is expected to happen. Example: "The community is braced for the severe storm that is forecasted to hit this weekend."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Operators are braced for a walloping.

The Economist

The Republicans are braced for trouble too.

Independent

We are braced for a special life.

The Guardian - Opinion

The markets are braced for such a possibility.

The Economist

Companies are braced for a slowdown in orders.

The Economist

Planners of the Charleston museum are braced for debate.

The New York Times - Arts

Regardless, his players are braced for another awkward evening.

The Guardian - Sport

But party officials are braced for a dip in support, and the opposition smells blood.

The Economist

Local authorities are braced for a further squeeze on spending in the next financial year.

Independent

Americans are braced for their third horrendous summer of air travel in a row.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

But officials are braced for more difficult questions when the details of the Senate report emerge.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are braced for" to set a tone of cautious anticipation, particularly when discussing potentially negative or challenging future events. This phrase adds a layer of seriousness to your writing.

Common error

While grammatically correct, using "are braced for" in genuinely positive scenarios can sound awkward. The phrase inherently carries a sense of foreboding, so opt for alternatives like "are looking forward to" or "are excited about" /s/excited+about when discussing favorable events.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are braced for" functions as a verbal phrase indicating a state of readiness or preparation for an anticipated event, often one that is difficult or challenging. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. The examples show it applied to various scenarios from weather events to economic downturns.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "are braced for" is a versatile phrase used to denote preparation for an anticipated event, typically one carrying a degree of adversity or challenge. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and highly prevalent, particularly within News & Media. When using this phrase, it is important to consider the context, ensuring that it aligns with the intended tone of cautious anticipation. While "are expecting" might denote mere anticipation, "are braced for" adds an element of readiness, implying potential difficulties ahead. Avoid using in purely positive contexts and misuse can lead to a tone that is inappropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are steeling themselves for

Implies mental and emotional preparation for something difficult.

are preparing for

Focuses on the action of getting ready, less about the impact.

are girding their loins for

An idiom suggesting vigorous preparation for a challenge.

are getting ready for

More informal and emphasizes the process of preparation.

are making preparations for

Highlights practical steps being taken.

are anticipating

Highlights expectation rather than readiness.

are standing by for

Suggests readiness to respond to an imminent event.

are expecting

Neutral, simply indicates an event is foreseen.

are lying in wait for

Similar to "are awaiting", it suggest that someone is waiting quietly, often with a negative connotation.

are awaiting

Formal and implies a more passive form of readiness.

FAQs

How can I use "are braced for" in a sentence?

Use "are braced for" to indicate that someone or something is preparing for a challenging or difficult event. For example, "Coastal communities "are preparing for" the hurricane."

What can I say instead of "are braced for"?

You can use alternatives like ""are preparing for"", "are expecting", or "are anticipating" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "are braced for" in formal writing?

Yes, "are braced for" is suitable for formal writing, especially in news reports or analytical pieces where a sense of caution or anticipation is warranted. However, consider alternatives if the context is purely positive.

What's the nuance of using "are braced for" compared to "are expecting"?

"Are braced for" implies a readiness to withstand something potentially negative or challenging, while "are expecting" is more neutral and simply indicates anticipation of an event.