are positioned over

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are positioned over" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the placement or location of one object relative to another, often in a physical or spatial context. Example: "The books are positioned over the shelf, creating an organized display."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Thus, for instance, a violin consists of four strings (the vibrating elements) which are positioned over a fingerboard (playing surface) and coupled through the bridge to the instrument's body (acoustic resonator).

Encyclopedia Britannica

In PICs, the TFIIB linker and core domains are positioned over the central cleft and wall of Pol II.

Cell

Since we focus on tremor signals associated with eruptions and lahars, grid nodes are positioned over the volcano surface.

Earth, Planets and Space

The FU (or S) and the FD relay are positioned over a straight line towards D, so that d SR =d RD =20 m, while d SD =40 m.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

The Grip has 18 sensing regions that are positioned over the fingers and palm.

BioMed Research International

Pieces of wood-based panel of known surface area are positioned over water for 24 h at a constant temperature.

Chemical Reviews

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Two balcony stages were positioned over the side pillars.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A skull-and-crossbones motif is positioned over a number one followed by nine zeroes.

The New Yorker

In the course of the ritual dance the female is positioned over the spermatophore.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The nest or egg chamber is dug exclusively with the hind limbs, the tail is positioned over the centre of the nest opening, and eggs are deposited.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The reason is a feature it calls the "fluidic touch screen," a gel sandwiched between two clear layers that is positioned over the phone's screen.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To improve readability, avoid overusing passive voice constructs like "are positioned over". Consider active voice alternatives where appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "are positioned over" when the relationship is not strictly vertical. If the objects are side-by-side, consider using phrases like "are adjacent to" or "are next to" to maintain accuracy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are positioned over" functions as a passive verb phrase indicating the spatial relationship between two or more entities. It describes where something is in relation to something else, specifically indicating placement above. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is usable in English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

57%

Encyclopedias

29%

News & Media

14%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are positioned over" is a grammatically correct passive verb phrase commonly used to describe spatial relationships, indicating that something is placed above something else. Ludwig's analysis indicates that while the phrase is generally applicable, it is most frequently found in scientific and encyclopedic writing. When using "are positioned over", ensure that the context clearly defines the spatial relationship and consider using active voice alternatives for greater directness. The available alternatives, like "are located above" or "are situated atop", can provide nuance based on the specific spatial context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are located above

Focuses on vertical placement, emphasizing a higher position.

are situated atop

Highlights being placed on top of something, suggesting direct contact.

are placed above

Emphasizes the act of putting something in a higher position.

are set upon

Implies a more deliberate or forceful placement on something.

are arranged above

Focuses on a specific order or layout in a higher position.

are aligned over

Stresses the correct arrangement of several elements in a specific direction over something.

are suspended above

Highlights being hung or floating above something.

are cantilevered over

Implies a structure that extends horizontally beyond its support.

are superimposed onto

Focuses on layering one thing on top of another.

are installed over

Specifies the act of setting something in place over another, often in a technical context.

FAQs

How can I use "are positioned over" in a sentence?

This phrase describes the placement of one thing above another. For example, "The sensors "are positioned over" the affected area to monitor the changes".

What's a formal alternative to "are positioned over"?

In formal contexts, you could use phrases like "are situated above" or "are located atop" as alternatives.

What can I say instead of "are positioned over"?

Depending on the context, alternatives include "are located above", "are situated atop", or "are placed above".

Is it better to use active or passive voice with "are positioned over"?

While grammatically correct, excessive use of passive voice can make writing less direct. Consider active voice constructions where possible for improved clarity.