be controlled by

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be controlled by" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone or something is under the influence or authority of another entity. Example: "The project will be controlled by the new management team to ensure it aligns with the company's goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

They can be controlled by spraying.

Encyclopedia Britannica

I can't be controlled by this.

The New York Times - Travel

The House will be controlled by Republicans.

The New York Times

And it can be controlled by reducing the drugs.

The New York Times

Honduras is often said to be controlled by ten families.

The New Yorker

Public services would, once more, be controlled by the public.

The Guardian

Moreover, the joint venture could not be controlled by Enron.

The New York Times

Timing, for example, appears to be controlled by the cerebellum.

The New Yorker

This lock can be controlled by key or by code.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Capital was controlled by women.

The New Yorker

He is controlled by others.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be controlled by", ensure the sentence clearly identifies both the entity being controlled and the entity exerting control to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid overusing the passive voice with "be controlled by". Whenever possible, rephrase the sentence in the active voice to make it more direct and engaging. For example, instead of "The process is controlled by the algorithm", consider "The algorithm controls the process".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be controlled by" primarily functions as a passive construction, indicating that the subject of the sentence is the recipient of control exerted by an external agent. As evidenced by Ludwig, this construction is widely used across various domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be controlled by" is a versatile passive construction used to indicate that an entity is under the authority or influence of another. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across diverse contexts. While its register leans toward neutral to professional, it's essential to be mindful of potential overuse of the passive voice and to consider rephrasing sentences in the active voice for greater impact. As highlighted, synonyms like "be governed by" or "be regulated by" can offer more formal alternatives, while understanding the nuance between "control" and "influence" is crucial for precise communication. By adhering to best practices and avoiding common errors, writers can effectively leverage "be controlled by" to convey states of subjugation, governance, or influence with clarity and accuracy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be governed by

Focuses more on rules or principles that dictate actions or processes.

be managed by

Emphasizes the act of overseeing and directing something.

be influenced by

Highlights the effect one thing has on another, often subtly.

be dictated by

Suggests a strong, authoritative command or determination.

be regulated by

Implies a formal system of rules and enforcement.

be subject to

Indicates vulnerability or susceptibility to an external power or effect.

be determined by

Focuses on the factors that decide or establish something.

be dominated by

Highlights the overwhelming power or presence of something.

be directed by

Emphasizes guidance and instruction from a specific source.

be manipulated by

Implies skillful handling, controlling, or using of something.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "be controlled by" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "be governed by" or "be regulated by". These options often convey a sense of structure and authority.

What's the difference between "be controlled by" and "be influenced by"?

"Be controlled by" implies a direct and often forceful exercise of power, while "be influenced by" suggests a more subtle and indirect effect. Control denotes authority, influence denotes persuasion.

When is it appropriate to use "be controlled by" in writing?

Use "be controlled by" when you want to emphasize that one entity has authority or power over another. This is suitable in contexts ranging from describing system processes to political dynamics.

What are some less formal alternatives to "be controlled by"?

In informal settings, you can use phrases like "be run by" or "be handled by". These options are more conversational and less assertive than "be controlled by".