are outlined by

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are outlined by" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing how certain points, ideas, or concepts are presented or detailed by a specific source or authority. Example: "The key principles of the project are outlined by the official guidelines provided by the organization."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The ABC's many manifest failures are outlined by Jones.

The Guardian

On the Ford Bronco concept S.U.V., the taillights are outlined by L.E.D.'s.

The New York Times - Travel

The hand-hewn pine doors are outlined by neon-orange molding.

The New Yorker

They are outlined by international relations scholar John Mearsheimer in the leading US establishment journal, Foreign Affairs.

The Guardian

The rules for retaining student records are outlined by the New York State Education Department, and have been adopted by the city's education officials.

The New York Times

Don't get me wrong, reading is beset by challenges - again, these are outlined by Hirsch in the essay linked above - but many cultural benefits are in our favour too.

The Guardian

Reproductions of two of Hoffmann's smart, self-important-looking little black stuffed Villa Gallia armchairs (1913), some of whose elements are outlined by black and white braiding, appear on a landing where they can be sat on by visitors.

The New York Times - Arts

The earliest and most intriguing works in this career survey are small pen-and-ink drawings from the late 1930's in which strangely abstracted figures are outlined by squiggly lines and filled in with intricate patterns of arcing hatch marks.

The New York Times - Arts

Carolina bays are outlined by orange polygons.

Progress in Earth and Planetary Science

Tumours are outlined by dashed circles.

EJNMMI Radiopharmacy and Chemistry

Some indications are outlined by Schwartz et al. (2005).

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are outlined by", ensure the source you are referencing is credible and authoritative to lend weight to the information being presented.

Common error

While "are outlined by" is grammatically sound, excessive use of passive voice can make your writing seem less direct. Consider rephrasing to use active voice when appropriate to improve clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are outlined by" functions as a passive verb phrase indicating that certain details, principles, or characteristics are described or presented by a specified entity. As seen in Ludwig, this structure highlights the source of information rather than the actor.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are outlined by" is a grammatically correct and commonly used passive verb phrase that attributes information to a specific source. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's effective in a variety of contexts, particularly in science and news media, emphasizing the origin and authority of the information. While versatile, it's important to balance its use with active voice constructions for clarity. Alternatives such as "are detailed by" or "are specified by" can be used depending on the intended emphasis. By adhering to best practices and avoiding overuse of passive voice, writers can effectively leverage the phrase "are outlined by" to enhance the credibility and clarity of their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are detailed by

This alternative emphasizes the thoroughness of the description.

are specified by

This alternative suggests a more precise and exact description.

are described in

This alternative is a general way to indicate that something is discussed in a particular context.

are defined by

This alternative indicates that something is characterized or determined by specific criteria.

are delineated by

This alternative suggests a clear and distinct marking or outlining.

are presented by

This alternative focuses on how information is conveyed.

are explained by

This alternative emphasizes the clarification aspect of the description.

are governed by

This alternative highlights the rules or principles dictating something.

are determined by

This alternative emphasizes the factors that influence or decide something.

are stipulated by

This alternative implies a formal agreement or condition.

FAQs

How can I use "are outlined by" in a sentence?

The phrase "are outlined by" indicates that certain details or principles are described or presented by a specific source. For instance, "The project's objectives "are outlined by" the project manager in the proposal."

What are some alternatives to "are outlined by"?

Alternatives include "are detailed by", "are specified by", or "are described in", depending on the context and the level of detail you wish to convey.

Is it better to use active or passive voice with "are outlined by"?

While "are outlined by" is in passive voice, consider using active voice for more direct writing. For example, instead of "The guidelines "are outlined by" the committee", you could say "The committee outlines the guidelines".

What's the difference between "are outlined by" and "are defined by"?

"Are outlined by" suggests a description or presentation of details, while "are defined by" implies a precise explanation of what something means or encompasses. The choice depends on whether you're describing or defining.