are commended

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are commended" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing praise or approval for someone's actions or achievements, often in a formal context. Example: "The students are commended for their outstanding performance in the science fair."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

Prison staff and in-reach health teams are commended for coping well in trying circumstances.

The Guardian - Opinion

Open questions such as: "Have you come far?" (the House of Windsor special) – are commended.

The Guardian - Opinion

Through the use of presumptions, certain inferences are commended to the attention of jurors by legislatures or courts.

Cornell University

After gentrification takes hold, neighborhoods are commended for having "bounced back" from poverty, ignoring the fact that poverty has usually only been bounced elsewhere.

The Guardian - Opinion

Both are commended to anyone who cares deeply about the continuing effort of humankind to understand the web of nature from which it has sprung.

The New York Times - Books

But the press coverage of their giving tends to feed the narrative of an enfeebled public sector being resuscitated through the vitality of charitable giving, and the philanthropists are commended for their timely intercession.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

"You should be commended".

The New Yorker

Fierceness is commended.

The New Yorker

It should be commended".

Independent

He should be commended.

The New York Times

This is to be commended.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are commended" to formally acknowledge and express approval for significant achievements or contributions. This phrase is suitable for reports, articles, and formal communications.

Common error

Avoid using "are commended" in casual conversations or informal writing, as it can sound overly formal or stilted. Opt for more natural phrases like "are praised" or "are appreciated" in such situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are commended" functions as a passive verb phrase, indicating that the subject receives praise or approval. It is used to formally acknowledge positive actions or qualities. Ludwig AI confirms this aligns with standard English grammar and usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

32%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are commended" is a formal passive verb phrase used to express praise or approval. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it adheres to standard English grammar and is commonly found in news, science, and encyclopedic contexts. While grammatically sound, remember to reserve its use for formal settings to maintain appropriate tone and register. When more casual language is appropriate, consider using synonyms such as "are praised" or "are appreciated".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are praised

A more direct and simple synonym for 'are commended'.

receive praise

Changes the verb from 'commend' to 'praise' and uses an active voice structure.

are applauded

Replaces 'commended' with 'applauded', suggesting strong approval and admiration.

are lauded

Uses 'lauded', implying high praise and recognition.

are celebrated

Suggests a more enthusiastic and public form of approval.

earn accolades

Indicates that praise and awards are deserved.

are recognized

Focuses on acknowledgment of achievement rather than explicit praise.

garner praise

Suggests that praise is collected or accumulated due to positive actions.

are acknowledged

Highlights the act of being noticed and appreciated, similar to being commended.

are esteemed

Implies a high level of respect and admiration.

FAQs

How can I use "are commended" in a sentence?

"Are commended" is typically used in passive voice to formally praise or acknowledge someone's actions or achievements. For example: "The team members "are commended" for their dedication and hard work".

What are some alternatives to "are commended"?

Alternatives to "are commended" include "are praised", "are applauded", "are lauded", or "are recognized", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "are commended"?

It is appropriate to use "are commended" in formal settings, such as official reports, news articles, or formal speeches, where you want to express approval or recognition in a dignified manner.

What is the difference between "are commended" and "are praised"?

While both phrases express approval, "are commended" tends to be more formal and is often used in official contexts. "Are praised" is a more general term that can be used in both formal and informal situations.