are still occupied

USAGE SUMMARY

"are still occupied" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is commonly used to indicate that something or someone continues to be in use, engaged, or employed. Example: The beach houses are still occupied by the summer tourists even though it is now fall.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

Around a third of the properties on his estate are still occupied by council tenants.

The Guardian - Money

About 1,750 white-owned farms are still occupied by black squatters.

The New York Times - Travel

Though there are about 50 tents, residents concede that some but not all are still occupied overnight.

The New York Times

While many are still occupied by single families, others have been converted into cafes, art studios and shops.

The New York Times

Three apartment complexes on the shoreline that are still occupied have been declared uninhabitable and will require demolishing.

Independent

But a handful of flats are still occupied; Tatiana is waiting for an appraisal so her family can receive compensation.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

"We are still occupying Wall Street," said two young women as they high-fived.

The Guardian

The parliamentary elections are over, but in the rustling fields, black squatters are still occupying a thousand white-owned farms.

The New York Times

After almost two months demonstrators are still occupying the main protest area at Admiralty and a smaller site at Causeway Bay.

The Guardian

Elsewhere, Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint, the main characters from the Harry Potter franchise, are still occupying the top 10, having placed at number two, five and seven respectively.

Independent

Demonstrators are still occupying Independence Square in the capital, Kiev.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a situation where something has not changed, using "are still occupied" adds a layer of continuity and persistence to your writing. It indicates that the state of being occupied has remained consistent over time.

Common error

Avoid using "are still occupied" in contexts where an active voice would be more direct and clear. For example, instead of "The room is still occupied by someone," consider "Someone still occupies the room."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are still occupied" functions as a predicate adjective, describing the state or condition of a subject (e.g., buildings, rooms, territories). It indicates that the subject continues to be in a state of being possessed or inhabited. Ludwig confirms this with numerous examples from varied sources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are still occupied" is a versatile and common way to express that something continues to be inhabited or used. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts. The linguistic analysis reveals that its primary function is to describe the ongoing state of a subject, conveying information about its continued occupation. The register is generally neutral, making it suitable for both formal and informal communication. When writing, consider using alternative phrases like "remain in use" or "continue to be inhabited" for variety, but be mindful of the specific nuance you wish to convey. Avoid using the phrase in overly passive constructions to maintain clarity and directness. Ludwig's examples from authoritative sources illustrate its diverse applications and reliability in English writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

continue to be inhabited

This phrase specifically refers to places where people are living or residing.

remain in use

This alternative emphasizes the continued functionality or usability of something.

are currently tenanted

This alternative is specific to rental properties and emphasizes their current occupancy.

are not yet vacated

This phrase focuses on the lack of departure, implying a temporary situation.

persist in being used

This option highlights the ongoing nature of the use, even if unexpected.

have not been emptied

This highlights the fact that items or people remain inside.

are still in service

This option implies ongoing operation or utility, often for equipment or facilities.

are presently utilized

This is a more formal way of saying "are currently used".

are actively held

This suggests a deliberate or forceful holding of a location or position.

endure in their occupancy

This option expresses continued residence or possession despite challenges.

FAQs

How can I use "are still occupied" in a sentence?

You can use "are still occupied" to describe locations or positions that remain in use. For example, "The apartments "are still occupied" by long-term residents."

What's a good alternative to "are still occupied"?

Alternatives include "remain in use", "continue to be inhabited", or "persist in being used" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use "are still occupied" or "are still being occupied"?

The phrase "are still occupied" is generally preferred for its conciseness and directness. "Are still being occupied" can sound redundant unless emphasizing the process of occupation.

Can "are still occupied" be used for abstract concepts?

While typically used for physical spaces, "are still occupied" can metaphorically describe abstract concepts. For example, "The top positions "are still occupied" by the same ideas."