are referred to as

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are referred to as" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is used when describing something by its alternative names or terms. For example, "Soccer and football are sometimes referred to as the same sport."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

computation, which are referred to as domains.

University of California, Berkeley

…groups are referred to as Scheduled Castes.

Britannica

Lactam compounds are referred to as cycloamides.

Wear

Such problems are referred to as discrete.

The Finite Element Method Set Its Basis and Fundamentals

They are referred to as consulting engineers.

Technical Career Survival Handbook 100 Things You Need to Know

Such systems are referred to as continuous.

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Such processes are referred to as recovery.

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These products are referred to as artificial tears.

Harvard University

These optional credits are referred to as "off-cycle" credits.

Cornell University

His teachings are referred to as the Dharma.

Stanford University

These loans are referred to as "risk-share" loans.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are referred to as", ensure the alternative term is clearly defined or understood within the context to avoid confusion.

Common error

Avoid overusing passive constructions like "are referred to as". Consider active alternatives like "we call them" or "they are known as" for a more direct and engaging writing style.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are referred to as" functions as a descriptive term used to introduce alternative names, labels, or classifications for a subject. It helps clarify terminology by providing synonyms or related terms. Ludwig shows numerous examples of its use in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

33%

Academia

23%

News & Media

28%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

14%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "are referred to as" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase for introducing alternative names or descriptions. As Ludwig's examples demonstrate, it appears commonly in academic, scientific, and news contexts, reflecting its broad applicability. While other expressions like "are known as" and "are called" offer similar meanings, understanding the nuances of each can enhance writing precision. Remember to use this phrase judiciously, avoiding overuse of passive voice, as recommended. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and can be used in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are known as

Focuses on common knowledge or recognition of a term.

are called

A more direct and simpler way of stating what something is named.

are designated as

Implies a formal naming or classification.

are termed

Suggests a more technical or specific vocabulary.

go by the name of

Indicates a less formal or more colloquial naming convention.

are labeled as

Highlights the act of categorizing or classifying.

are identified as

Emphasizes recognition or distinction from others.

are classified as

Signifies a systematic arrangement into groups or categories.

are recognized as

Emphasizes acknowledgment or acceptance of a certain status or name.

are styled as

Suggests a particular presentation or way of being described.

FAQs

How can I use "are referred to as" in a sentence?

You can use "are referred to as" to introduce an alternative name or term for something. For example, "Those occurrences "are referred to" as anomalous induced seismicity".

What's a good alternative to "are referred to as"?

Alternatives include "are known as", "are called", or "are termed", depending on the desired level of formality and specificity.

Is it grammatically correct to use "are referred to as"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The phrase "are referred to as" is a standard construction in English used to indicate that something is also known by another name.

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

"Are referred to as" simply indicates that something is called by another name, while "are known as" implies a broader recognition or familiarity with the alternative term.