Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
be counted
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
"be counted" is a valid part of a sentence that can be used in written English.
It is typically used as a passive verb phrase, meaning that the subject is being included or included in a group or tally. Example: "Every vote must be counted in order to determine the winner of the election." In this sentence, "be counted" is used to convey the idea that each individual vote is important and will be included in the final count. Other examples of using "be counted" in a sentence could include: - "All participants' scores will be counted to determine the winner of the competition." - "In order to have an accurate headcount, please make sure everyone's attendance is counted." - "It's important that every voice is counted in the decision-making process."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Wiki
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
"Be counted," he wrote.
News & Media
They need to be counted.
News & Media
You want to be counted.
News & Media
Each gemstone must be counted.
News & Media
This, too, must be counted.
News & Media
Others like Nokia cannot be counted out.
News & Media
We stood up to be counted.
News & Media
Mr Madrazo cannot be counted out either.
News & Media
Sit back, relax and be counted.
News & Media
Ballots will be counted on May 16th.
News & Media
Costs can be counted in many denominations.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "be counted" when you want to emphasize the importance of each individual item within a larger group, especially in contexts like voting or surveys. For example: "Every vote must "be counted" to ensure a fair election."
Common error
Avoid using "be counted" when active voice is more appropriate. For example, instead of "Mistakes were "be counted" by the teacher", use "The teacher counted the mistakes."
Source & Trust
86%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "be counted" functions as a passive verb phrase, indicating that the subject is the recipient of the action. It's used to express that something or someone is included in a total or calculation, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.
Frequent in
News & Media
65%
Wiki
15%
Formal & Business
10%
Less common in
Science
5%
Encyclopedias
3%
Academia
2%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "be counted" is a versatile passive verb phrase used to emphasize inclusion, significance, or participation. It is grammatically correct and very common across various contexts, particularly in news and media. According to Ludwig, its primary function is to ensure that each item or voice is acknowledged and considered. To enhance your writing, remember to use it when you want to highlight the importance of individual contributions within a group, but be mindful of when active voice might be more appropriate. By considering these points, you can effectively use "be counted" to convey your intended meaning with clarity and impact.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
be included
Focuses on the act of being part of a group or calculation.
be considered
Highlights the aspect of being taken into account or assessed.
be reckoned with
Emphasizes the need to acknowledge someone's or something's importance or power.
be taken into account
Stresses the act of considering something during a decision-making process.
be relied upon
Focuses on the aspect of being dependable or trustworthy.
be depended on
Similar to "be relied upon", highlighting reliability.
be of consequence
Emphasizes the importance or significance of something.
be of significance
Similar to "be of consequence", stressing importance.
be part of the calculation
Highlights inclusion in a quantitative assessment.
have a voice
Focuses on having influence or being heard in a decision-making process.
FAQs
How can I use "be counted" in a sentence?
The phrase "be counted" indicates inclusion or consideration. For instance, "All votes must "be counted" fairly" or "Each contribution will "be counted" towards the final goal."
What is a good alternative to "be counted"?
Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "be included", "be considered", or "be taken into account".
Is it correct to say "being counted" instead of "be counted"?
The phrase "being counted" is a gerund or present participle, often used in continuous tenses or as a noun. "Be counted" is typically used as a passive infinitive. For example: "The votes are currently being counted" versus "The votes need to be counted."
What's the difference between "be counted" and "count towards"?
"Be counted" means to be included in a tally or assessment, while "count towards" implies contributing to a final result. For example: "Each vote will "be counted", and those votes will "count towards" the election outcome."
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
86%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested