are discouraged

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are discouraged" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that certain actions or behaviors are not recommended or advised against. Example: "Students are discouraged from using their phones during class to maintain focus and engagement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Are there items or expenses that are discouraged?

Duke University

Large groups are discouraged.

The New York Times - Travel

Knives are discouraged.

The New York Times - Sports

Reimbursements are discouraged.

Cornell University

Riff-raff are discouraged.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Doctors are discouraged by risk.

Stanford University

They are discouraged from taking any leave.

The New York Times

Misleading "pro forma" accounts are discouraged.

The Economist

Diversions from this list are discouraged.

The New York Times

Cameraphones are discouraged, meaning everyone pays attention.

The Guardian - Music

Guests are discouraged from bringing children.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are discouraged" when you want to express that certain actions or behaviors are not recommended due to potential negative consequences or lack of support. Be specific about why they are discouraged for clarity.

Common error

While "are discouraged" is grammatically sound, overuse of the passive voice can make your writing sound weak. Consider rephrasing to use active voice when appropriate for a more direct and engaging tone. For example, instead of "Students are discouraged from using phones", try "We discourage students from using phones".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are discouraged" functions as a passive construction, indicating that someone or something is the recipient of an action that diminishes enthusiasm or approval. It commonly serves to express disapproval or to advise against a particular behavior or action. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are discouraged" is a versatile and grammatically sound construction used to express that certain actions or behaviors are not recommended. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is suitable for various contexts, ranging from formal academic writing to news reports. While "are discouraged" is generally neutral, consider using active voice constructions for a more direct tone. By understanding its nuances and appropriate usage, writers can effectively convey disapproval or caution in their communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are advised against

Implies a formal recommendation to avoid something.

are not recommended

Suggests a lack of endorsement or approval.

should be avoided

Indicates a stronger emphasis on preventing something from happening.

are dissuaded from

Focuses on actively persuading someone not to do something.

are deterred from

Highlights the use of obstacles or disincentives to prevent an action.

are cautioned against

Emphasizes a warning about potential risks or negative consequences.

are frowned upon

Implies social disapproval or a lack of acceptance.

are disinclined to

Describes a lack of willingness or enthusiasm to do something.

are unwelcome

Indicates that something is not desired or accepted.

are not favored

Suggests that something is less preferred or desirable.

FAQs

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

The phrase "are discouraged" is used to indicate that certain actions or behaviors are not recommended. For example, "Students "are discouraged" from using their phones during class."

What are some alternatives to "are discouraged"?

Alternatives include "are advised against", "are not recommended", or "should be avoided". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality you want to convey.

Is it better to say "are discouraged" or "should avoid"?

Both "are discouraged" and "should avoid" can be used to express that something is not recommended. "Are discouraged" is generally more formal and passive, while "should avoid" is more direct and active. The choice depends on the tone and context of your writing.

What does it mean when something is described as "discouraged"?

When something is described as "discouraged", it means that it is not recommended or favored, often because it may lead to negative consequences or is not aligned with established guidelines or best practices.