be censured

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be censured" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to someone being formally reprimanded or criticized, often in a professional or official context. Example: "The committee decided that the member would be censured for their inappropriate remarks during the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The judge's lawyer said she should be censured, not indicted.

The New York Times

"He should be censured and brought to justice," she said.

The New York Times

Mr. Parker should be censured, and voters in central Brooklyn should start recruiting a qualified replacement.

The New York Times

A few Democrats are proposing that the president should be censured and then pardoned.

The Economist

Ms Jara was the first to be censured by Congress since 1963.

The Economist

Seizing on Mr. Parker's remarks, Senate Republicans called for him to be censured.

The New York Times

I wonder whether an an official be censured for dissent to a player?

The Guardian - Sport

Pereira was not the only Uruguayan to be censured in the second half.

The Guardian - Sport

It still goes on, of course, but anyone brandishing a smartphone will be censured.

The Guardian

Sutherland even gently insinuates that one might be censured for such uncollegial conduct.

The Guardian - Opinion

If he acted out of narcissism, he is to be censured.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be censured" when you want to convey a formal and often public expression of disapproval or condemnation. It is most appropriate in professional or official settings.

Common error

Avoid using "be censured" in casual conversation or informal writing. The phrase carries a weight of formal reprimand that is inappropriate for everyday situations. Use milder terms like "be criticized" or "be corrected" instead.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "be censured" is to denote a passive voice construction indicating that a subject receives formal criticism or condemnation. Ludwig confirms this through numerous examples of individuals and entities being formally reprimanded.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Encyclopedias

8%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Science

10%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be censured" is a grammatically sound expression signifying formal condemnation or reprimand, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Predominantly found in "News & Media" and "Encyclopedias", it conveys a serious tone, suitable for professional or official contexts. While versatile, it should be used judiciously in informal settings. Common alternatives include "be reprimanded" and "be criticized", each with subtle differences in formality. In summary, while its usage is widespread, understanding the context is key to employing "be censured" effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be reprimanded

Focuses on a formal rebuke, similar to being censured but potentially less severe.

receive a reprimand

Focuses on the act of receiving a formal warning or disapproval.

be rebuked

Implies a strong disapproval or scolding, sharing the critical aspect of "be censured".

be criticized

A more general term indicating disapproval, less formal than "be censured".

face condemnation

Emphasizes a strong and often public disapproval, akin to a severe censure.

be admonished

Gentle or friendly reproof.

be sanctioned

Involves a penalty or punishment for wrongdoing, reflecting a formal consequence of censure.

be taken to task

To be criticized or reprimanded severely.

be called on the carpet

To be brought before someone in authority to be reprimanded.

incur disapproval

To cause or bring on disapproval.

FAQs

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

The phrase "be censured" is typically used to indicate that someone has received a formal reprimand or condemnation, often in an official or professional setting. For example, "The politician was found to "be censured" by the ethics committee".

What are some alternatives to saying "be censured"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "be reprimanded", "be rebuked", or "be criticized". The choice depends on the level of formality and severity you wish to convey.

What does it mean when someone is said to "be censured"?

When someone is said to "be censured", it means they have received a formal expression of disapproval or condemnation, usually for actions considered wrong or inappropriate within a specific context, such as a professional code of conduct.

Is there a difference between "be censured" and "be criticized"?

While both phrases indicate disapproval, "be censured" implies a more formal and official reprimand, often by an authority or governing body. "Be criticized" is a more general term and can apply to informal situations as well.