are enlightened

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are enlightened" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of having gained knowledge or insight, often in a philosophical or spiritual context. Example: "Those who seek truth and understanding often find that they are enlightened by their experiences."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It might be spent as a force in American politics, but as long as there are enlightened individuals, the Enlightenment lives.

The New York Times

"If you are enlightened, look back and help others become enlightened, too," he said.

The New York Times

"A bodhisattra [sic] (an enlightened one who vows to return until all sentient beings are enlightened) is supposed to save others before saving themselves," he said.

Huffington Post

Are you saying, then, that because your ancestors died fighting in the Civil War that all are enlightened enough to "critique" the state of black America -- in 2016?

Huffington Post

"They are enlightened and informed.

The New York Times

Socially, they are enlightened.

The Guardian

We are enlightened by this.

The New York Times

Fortunately, there are enlightened exceptions.

The Guardian - Books

(The other ten per cent are enlightened but self-interested and creepy).

The New Yorker

Surely, in 2010, readers are enlightened enough to accept that men can be romantic too.

Independent

My Thursday mornings are enlightened by his eclectic and informative In Our Time Radio 4 programmes.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are enlightened" to describe a state of intellectual or spiritual understanding gained through learning or experience. Ensure the context aligns with the intended meaning of gaining clarity or profound insight.

Common error

Avoid using "are enlightened" to simply mean "are informed". Enlightenment carries a connotation of profound understanding or spiritual awakening, not just the acquisition of facts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are enlightened" functions as a predicate adjective, describing the state of being of a subject. It signifies a condition of having attained knowledge, understanding, or spiritual insight, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are enlightened" is a versatile expression indicating a state of profound understanding or awareness. It's grammatically sound and commonly used across various contexts, from news and media to scientific discussions. According to Ludwig, its primary function is to describe a condition of having gained intellectual or spiritual insight. When using this phrase, it's important to ensure the context reflects the intended meaning of achieving clarity or profound understanding, rather than simply being informed. Understanding these nuances will help you use "are enlightened" effectively in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have achieved enlightenment

Emphasizes the completion of a process leading to profound spiritual or intellectual understanding.

are awakened

Implies a shift in consciousness or awareness, often in a spiritual context.

have gained insight

Focuses on acquiring a deeper understanding of a particular subject or situation.

have been illuminated

Uses a metaphorical expression to suggest a newfound clarity or understanding.

possess understanding

Highlights the state of having knowledge and comprehension.

are spiritually aware

Specifically denotes an understanding of spiritual concepts and connections.

are well-informed

Stresses the possession of comprehensive information about a topic.

are cognizant

Highlights awareness and understanding of something.

are knowledgeable

Highlights the quality of being learned and experienced.

are intellectually stimulated

Indicates a state of being mentally engaged and enriched by new information.

FAQs

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

You can use "are enlightened" to describe a state of gaining knowledge or insight, often with philosophical or spiritual implications. For example, "Only when we truly understand ourselves /s/are+we+enlightened".

What's a more formal way to say "are enlightened"?

More formal alternatives include "have achieved enlightenment" or "have gained insight", which convey a similar meaning with greater sophistication.

What's the difference between "are informed" and "are enlightened"?

"Are informed" simply means having knowledge of something. "Are enlightened", on the other hand, suggests a deeper level of understanding and wisdom. You can be informed without being enlightened, but enlightenment often comes after being well-informed.

Which is the correct phrase, "are enlightened" or "have enlightened"?

"Are enlightened" is used to describe the state of receiving enlightenment. "Have enlightened" would mean that someone caused enlightenment in others. For example, "Teachers hope they /s/have+enlightened their students", whereas "Students hope they /s/are+enlightened by their teachers".