be characterized

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be characterized" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing the defining features or qualities of a subject or object. Example: "The species can be characterized by its unique coloration and behavior in its natural habitat."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Can this be characterized as a tax?

The New York Times

Indeed, neither could be characterized as shy.

The New York Times

Division cannot logically be characterized as reproduction.

Harvard University

Can it really be characterized as a renaissance?

The New York Times

Moreover, fat should not be characterized simply as inert blubber.

The New Yorker

Neither deserves to be characterized as "back-scratching".

The New York Times

"Some would be characterized as liberal, some as very conservative.

The New York Times

Medieval philosophy continued to be characterized by this religious orientation.

Britannica

A perfect predictor would be characterized with Fmax = 1.

Nature

Hence, function cannot be characterized in purely material terms.

Britannica

The site can be characterized as urban background.

Nature

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be characterized", ensure the subject and the characteristics you are attributing to it are clearly defined. This avoids ambiguity and strengthens the clarity of your writing.

Common error

Avoid using overly general or subjective terms when using "be characterized". Instead, opt for specific, measurable, and observable qualities that provide a more accurate and informative description.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be characterized" functions as a passive verb phrase, typically used to describe how a subject is perceived or identified based on its attributes or qualities. It indicates the defining features or the nature of something, as exemplified by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

31%

Academia

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be characterized" serves as a versatile tool for describing and classifying subjects across diverse fields. As affirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and frequently employed. The primary contexts of usage span from News & Media to Science and Academia, reflecting its applicability in objective and descriptive scenarios. While alternatives like "be defined as" or "be described as" exist, "be characterized" offers a nuanced way to highlight the defining qualities of a subject. Remember to use specific and observable attributes for clarity and accuracy in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be defined as

This alternative focuses on providing a concise definition or explanation.

be described as

This alternative emphasizes the act of portraying or depicting something.

be known as

This alternative highlights the common perception or recognition of something.

be identified as

This alternative focuses on the act of recognizing or classifying something.

be regarded as

This alternative stresses the perspective or opinion of others.

be considered as

This alternative emphasizes a more thoughtful or deliberate assessment.

be viewed as

This alternative suggests a specific way of looking at or interpreting something.

be labeled as

This alternative implies the assignment of a specific category or descriptor.

be classified as

This alternative focuses on a systematic or scientific categorization.

be deemed as

This alternative highlights a formal or official judgment.

FAQs

How can I use "be characterized" in a sentence?

You can use "be characterized" to describe the defining features of a subject. For instance, "The species can "be characterized" by its unique coloration and behavior".

What are some alternatives to "be characterized"?

Alternatives include "be defined as", "be described as", or "be known as", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "is characterized by" or "is characterized as"?

"Is characterized by" is generally used to indicate the defining qualities of something, while "is characterized as" is used to classify or describe something in a particular way. Both are grammatically correct, but their meanings differ slightly.

What is the difference between "be characterized" and "be defined"?

"Be characterized" suggests a description based on notable features, whereas "be defined" implies a precise and often formal explanation of the essence or scope of something. Use "be defined" when providing a formal or restrictive meaning.