are known as

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are known as" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to introduce a term or name that is commonly associated with a subject or object. Example: "The large mammals that inhabit the ocean are known as whales."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

These are known as R.E.O.

The New York Times

They are known as blockbusters.

The Economist

These are known as antigens.

Independent

These are known as blitzes.

The New York Times - Arts

WHO are known as NEETs?

The New York Times

They are known as sponsored academies.

Independent

Those are known as design-basis accidents.

The New York Times

These children are known as "social orphans".

The New Yorker

These are known as heterogeneous catalytic reactions.

Encyclopedia Britannica

These are known as closed associations.

Encyclopedia Britannica

These "hidden" charges are known as dipping.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are known as" to introduce a common or accepted name for something, ensuring clarity and avoiding ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "are known as" for names or terms that are not widely recognized or accepted. Instead, use alternatives like "are referred to as" or "are designated as" to indicate a specific or less common naming convention.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are known as" functions as a linking phrase, specifically an appositive linker. It connects a subject to a noun or noun phrase that identifies or renames it. The examples in Ludwig confirm this function, showcasing how it introduces a common term or label.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

27%

Science

20%

Less common in

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are known as" is a grammatically sound and highly versatile linking phrase used to introduce common names or labels. According to Ludwig, it is frequently found in News & Media, Encyclopedias, and Scientific contexts, indicating its broad applicability. While generally neutral in register, careful consideration should be given to the context to ensure appropriate usage. Common alternatives include "are referred to as" and "are called", each offering subtle differences in emphasis. By understanding these nuances, writers can effectively communicate and ensure clarity in their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are referred to as

Replaces "known" with "referred", emphasizing a specific act of naming.

are called

A more direct and simple alternative to "are known as".

are designated as

Emphasizes a formal designation or naming.

are identified as

Highlights the act of identification or recognition.

are termed

Suggests a specific or technical terminology.

are labeled as

Focuses on the act of assigning a label or category.

go by the name of

Indicates an informal or common name.

are recognized as

Emphasizes public acknowledgement or recognition.

are classified as

Highlights categorization based on specific criteria.

are considered as

Indicates a subjective assessment or opinion.

FAQs

How to use "are known as" in a sentence?

Use "are known as" to introduce a common name or label for a group, object, or concept. For example: "Animals that chew cud "are known as ruminants"."

What can I say instead of "are known as"?

You can use alternatives like "are called", "are referred to as", or "are designated as" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "are known as" or "is known as"?

"Are known as" is used for plural subjects, while "is known as" is used for singular subjects. For example: "These charges "are known as dipping"" (plural) vs. "This city "is known as the city of lights"" (singular).

What's the difference between "are known as" and "are considered as"?

"Are known as" indicates a widely accepted name or label, while "are considered as" suggests a subjective assessment or opinion. For example: "These charges "are known as dipping"" (factual) vs. "These actions "are considered as rude"" (opinion).