are directed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are directed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that something is aimed or pointed towards a specific target or audience. Example: "The resources are directed towards improving community health initiatives."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Three toes are directed forward, one behind.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Both are directed by Nathan Hull.

The New York Times - Arts

All films are directed by Dziga Vertov.

The New Yorker

Both are directed by John Schlesinger.

The Guardian - Film

Only two are directed by women.

The Guardian - Opinion

The mandates are directed to issue forthwith.

Cornell University

Other attempts are directed towards cheaper constructions.

Current Opinion in Biotechnology

All of Worldwide's profits are directed back into the BBC.

The Guardian

Some of my tweets are directed at competitors.

Harvard Business Review

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Even artistry is directed.

The New Yorker

Celebrations are being directed elsewhere.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are directed" when you want to emphasize a deliberate action of aiming or guiding something towards a specific target or purpose. For example, "Resources are directed towards improving community health initiatives".

Common error

Avoid using "are directed" in contexts where a more active voice would be clearer and more impactful. Instead of "Mistakes are directed to management", try "The team reports mistakes to management."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are directed" functions as a passive verb phrase, indicating that a subject is being acted upon or guided toward a specific goal or location. Ludwig shows examples across various contexts, reinforcing its role in indicating the direction or focus of an action.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

2%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are directed" is a grammatically sound and frequently used passive verb construction that indicates a target or focus. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage spans across varied contexts, predominantly in news, scientific and formal business settings. When using "are directed", ensure clarity by using the appropriate preposition ("at" for targets, "to" for recipients) and consider active voice alternatives for more direct communication. While generally neutral to formal, avoid overuse in informal settings where simpler language might be more suitable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are aimed

Focuses on the intent or purpose behind the direction.

are geared

Emphasizes preparation and suitability for a specific purpose.

are focused

Highlights the concentration of effort or attention.

are channeled

Suggests a guided flow of resources or energy.

are oriented

Indicates alignment or positioning towards a particular direction.

are targeted

Highlights a specific group or objective being addressed.

are routed

Implies a specific path or course is being followed.

are funneled

Suggests a narrowing or convergence towards a point.

are predisposed

Indicates an inclination or tendency towards something.

are predisposed toward

Highlights a tendency towards a specific outcome or behavior.

FAQs

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

The phrase "are directed" indicates that something is aimed or focused towards a specific target or goal. Example: "The project's efforts "are directed at" improving efficiency."

What's an alternative to saying "are directed"?

You can use alternatives like "are aimed at", "are focused on", or "are geared towards" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "is directed" instead of "are directed"?

No, "is directed" should be used with singular subjects, while "are directed" is for plural subjects. For example: "The missile is directed at the target" vs. "The missiles are directed at the targets".

What is the difference between "are directed at" and "are directed to"?

"Are directed at" implies targeting something, while "are directed to" suggests guidance or delivery towards a location or recipient. For example: "Criticisms "are directed at" the policy" vs. "Donations "are directed to" the charity".