are severed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are severed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that has been cut off or separated, often in a physical or metaphorical sense. Example: "The connections between the two departments are severed, leading to a lack of communication."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

When these are severely curtailed by an amnesic state, the links connecting present and past are severed, with a consequent failure of reproduction.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Digits are severed.

The New York Times

As soon as the young disperse, family ties are severed.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Now Mr. Li's ties to those companies are severed.

The New York Times

When the axons of nerves in the olfactory bulb are severed, fresh connections quickly regrow.

The New Yorker

Heads are severed and attached to poles, muscled torsos slashed and speared.

The New York Times

Many complain that they will suffer huge losses if economic ties are severed.

The New York Times

To be fair, "Spiral" has had a running motif in which characters' middle fingers are severed.

The New York Times - Books

Straps connecting astronauts to the relative security of their spacecraft are severed.

The New York Times

Likewise with traumatic injury, if the vessels are severed then the penis cannot fill with blood.

The Guardian

Embassy staff are expelled and diplomatic relations between the UK and Libya are severed.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are severed", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being cut off or disconnected. Provide specific details to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "are severed" in overly abstract or vague metaphorical situations. Opt for more precise language to maintain clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are severed" functions as a passive verb phrase. It describes a state where something has been disconnected or cut off. As Ludwig AI indicates, this construction is grammatically sound and readily usable in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

31%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are severed" is a grammatically correct passive construction indicating that something has been cut off or disconnected. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is usable in various contexts. Its primary function is to describe a state of separation. Predominantly found in News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias, its register ranges from neutral to formal. Alternatives include "are cut off" and "are disconnected", each carrying slightly different nuances. When using "are severed", ensure clarity regarding what is being disconnected and avoid overuse in vague metaphorical contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are cut off

Simple substitution, focusing on the physical action of cutting something.

are disconnected

Emphasizes a break in connection or communication.

are detached

Highlights a separation or lack of attachment.

are separated

Focuses on the act of being divided or set apart.

are terminated

Implies a formal or decisive ending.

are broken

Suggests a forceful or abrupt disruption of a connection.

are split

Focuses on the division into two or more parts.

are disjoined

Emphasizes a lack of connection or union.

are disrupted

Indicates an interruption or disturbance of a connection.

are isolated

Highlights the state of being set apart or detached from others.

FAQs

How is "are severed" used in a sentence?

The phrase "are severed" indicates that something has been cut off or disconnected. For example, "The cables "are severed", and the rocket stage flies away."

What's the difference between "are severed" and "are cut off"?

While both phrases imply separation, "are severed" often suggests a more forceful or complete disconnection, while "are cut off" can imply a more gradual or intentional disconnection.

What can I say instead of "are severed"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "are disconnected", "are separated", or "are terminated".

Is it appropriate to use "are severed" in formal writing?

Yes, "are severed" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when describing a clear and decisive separation or disconnection. However, consider the specific nuance and choose the most precise term for your context.