be appropriated

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be appropriated" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where something is taken or used, often without permission or in a way that is not intended by the original owner. Example: "The funds allocated for community development may be appropriated for other purposes if not used wisely."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"It shouldn't be appropriated".

The Economist

The money still must be appropriated.

The New York Times

In most cases, money has to be appropriated before work even begins.

The New York Times

Writer recommends that another 50 million be appropriated for a shoeshine stand.

The New Yorker

Paxton's study has made it no less likely that the label will be appropriated.

The New York Times - Books

Sweeney's research will probably be appropriated before it is ever put to its intended medical purpose.

The New York Times - Magazine

I want to believe that neither my taste nor my judgment can be appropriated.

The New York Times - Books

"Now, being dark can be appropriated and turned in on itself and turned into a 'style'style

The Guardian

It's going to be appropriated into the realm of the digital.

The New York Times - Magazine

She belongs to no group; she cannot easily be appropriated by any cause.

The Guardian - Books

As a result, the federal share must be appropriated annually through Congress.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be appropriated" in your writing, ensure the context clearly indicates whether the appropriation is legitimate, ethical, or potentially controversial. Clarity will prevent unintended implications.

Common error

Avoid using "be appropriated" when you mean to express appreciation or respect for another culture's elements. "Appropriation" often carries a negative connotation, implying a lack of respect or understanding, whereas appreciation conveys admiration and understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be appropriated" functions as a passive verb construction, indicating that something is being acted upon, specifically being taken or used, often without permission or for unintended purposes. Ludwig examples show how it's applied in contexts ranging from financial resources to cultural elements.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be appropriated" is a commonly used passive verb phrase that signifies the action of taking or using something, often without permission or for unintended purposes. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, particularly in news, science, and encyclopedia sources. While it functions neutrally, it is crucial to ensure clarity when using this phrase, as it can carry implications of legitimacy or ethical concerns. Related phrases include "be taken over", "be utilized", and "be allocated", which can offer alternative ways to express similar concepts while emphasizing different aspects of the action.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be taken over

Focuses on the act of gaining control or possession, often implying a change in ownership or management.

be utilized

Emphasizes the practical use of something, highlighting its function and application.

be allocated

Specifically refers to the distribution or assignment of resources for a particular purpose.

be designated

Implies a formal assignment or naming of something for a specific role or function.

be requisitioned

Suggests a formal demand or taking of something, often for official or military use.

be seized

Highlights the forceful or sudden taking of something, often against opposition.

be adopted

Focuses on the acceptance or implementation of something new, such as a policy or method.

be adapted

Emphasizes the modification of something to suit a new purpose or condition.

be expropriated

Refers to the taking of private property for public use, often with compensation.

be commandeered

Indicates the forced taking of something for military or public service, often temporarily.

FAQs

How is "be appropriated" typically used in a sentence?

The phrase "be appropriated" typically describes a situation where something is taken or used, often without permission or proper authorization. For example, "The funds allocated for community development may "be appropriated" for other purposes if not used wisely."

What are some alternatives to "be appropriated"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "be utilized", "be allocated", or "be taken over" to convey similar meanings.

When is it inappropriate to use the term "be appropriated"?

It's inappropriate to use "be appropriated" when you want to express genuine appreciation or respect for a cultural element. The term often implies a negative connotation of unauthorized or unethical usage. Use "be appreciated" or similar phrases instead.

What is the difference between "be appropriated" and "be adapted"?

"Be appropriated" generally means to take something for one's own use, sometimes without permission, while "be adapted" means to modify something to suit a new purpose or condition. For example, a cultural symbol might be appropriated for commercial gain, while a novel might be adapted into a screenplay.