be bound to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be bound to" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is used to express certainty or inevitability. For example, "If you don't follow safety protocols, you are bound to have an accident."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It would only be bound to disappoint.

The New York Times

Mustn't ride a bike, you'd be bound to fall off.

The Guardian

Variables can be bound to values in several ways.

Cornell University

Though people would be bound to call it that.

The Guardian - Books

It would be bound to the other atoms.

The New York Times - Science

These can be bound to variables using define or let.

Cornell University

Remember history or be bound to repeat it.

The Guardian - Books

Cassandra reckons audiences will be bound to enjoy it.

The Economist

If Mark Green is elected, questions about potential conflicts of interest will be bound to arise.

The New York Times

- his whinging poems would be bound to proliferate in such pain, like maggots in a wound.

The Guardian - Books

Such a fact specific test, moreover, would be bound to lead to haphazard results.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be bound to" to express a high degree of certainty about a future event or outcome. It is stronger than simply saying something is 'likely'.

Common error

While grammatically correct, overuse of "be bound to" can make your writing sound overly formal or stiff in casual settings. Consider using less formal alternatives like 'will definitely' or 'is sure to' in such situations.

How to use

Learn how to use "be bound to" with practical examples and tips.

How to use

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be bound to" functions as a modal verb phrase expressing strong probability or certainty about a future event. Ludwig shows numerous examples of its usage across diverse contexts, reinforcing its role in indicating likely outcomes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Academia

18%

Science

18%

Less common in

Wiki

12%

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be bound to" is a modal verb phrase used to express a high degree of certainty about a future event. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and sees frequent use across diverse contexts. While generally neutral to formal, it can be replaced with synonyms such as "be certain to" or "be sure to" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. When employing this phrase, remember that overuse can lead to stiffness, and less formal alternatives may be more appropriate in casual settings. "Be bound to" proves a reliable choice when assurance is key.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be certain to

Emphasizes the sureness of an event or outcome, focusing on its guaranteed nature.

be guaranteed to

Assures a specific result or outcome, focusing on the assurance rather than inherent probability.

be guaranteed to

Assures a specific result or outcome, focusing on the assurance rather than inherent probability.

be sure to

Implies a high degree of probability, similar to "be bound to", but may also carry a sense of instruction or recommendation.

be destined to

Suggests a predetermined fate or outcome, adding a sense of inevitability beyond simple likelihood.

be obliged to

Conveys a sense of duty or necessity, highlighting the compelling nature of the action.

be required to

Indicates a formal requirement or rule, focusing on external obligation rather than inherent certainty.

be compelled to

Highlights the feeling of being forced or driven to perform an action, emphasizing internal or external pressure.

can't help but

Indicates an inability to avoid a certain action or feeling, emphasizing the lack of control.

be set to

Indicates a planned or scheduled event, emphasizing the readiness and intention to proceed.

FAQs

How can I use "be bound to" in a sentence?

The phrase "be bound to" is used to express a high degree of certainty or inevitability. For instance, you might say, "If you don't study, you're "be bound to" fail the exam."

What phrases can I use instead of "be bound to"?

Alternatives to "be bound to" include phrases like "be certain to", "be sure to", or "be destined to", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more formal to use "be bound to" or "will definitely"?

"Be bound to" tends to be slightly more formal than "will definitely". "Will definitely" is perfectly acceptable in most contexts, but "be bound to" can lend a more serious or emphatic tone to your writing.

When is it appropriate to use "be bound to"?

Use "be bound to" when you want to express a strong conviction about a future outcome. It's appropriate in situations where you have a solid reason to believe something will happen, whether due to rules, circumstances, or patterns.