be decorated with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be decorated with" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing an object or person that has been adorned or embellished with specific items or features. Example: "The cake will be decorated with fresh flowers and intricate icing designs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They'll be decorated with relevant literary memorabilia.

The New Yorker

The related Arab surnāy may be decorated with inlay.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The bus will be decorated with the legend "Champions 2013".

The Guardian - Sport

Walls will be decorated with Windows logos and spacious new tables will display Windows computers.

The New York Times

Pine tables might be decorated with a Perrier bottle holding a couple of carnations.

Independent

A tower may be decorated with pinnacles, each one capped by a finial.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In the last case, the area will sometimes be decorated with a mural.

Encyclopedia Britannica

And gardens on the site will be decorated with Maya-inspired sculptures.

The New York Times - Travel

In the spring, peanut butter birdhouses can be decorated with birdseed.

The New York Times

The loaves would be decorated with edible blue paint, so they look nice.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The horns will be decorated with real bison wool from the fields.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be decorated with", ensure that the objects used for decoration are clearly and specifically identified. This enhances clarity and provides a more vivid description for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "be decorated with" to describe abstract concepts or qualities. This phrase is best suited for physical objects and tangible embellishments. For abstract concepts consider using alternatives such as "characterized by" or "defined by".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be decorated with" functions as a passive construction indicating that a subject receives the action of being adorned or embellished. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a common and grammatically sound way to describe how something is made more attractive or elaborate through the addition of specific elements. The examples show the phrase used to describe a variety of subjects, from rooms to cakes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be decorated with" is a grammatically sound and very common phrase used to describe the adornment or embellishment of a subject with specific elements. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It appears frequently in News & Media and Science contexts, maintaining a neutral register suitable for diverse communication styles. When using the phrase, specify the decorative elements clearly. Consider alternatives like "adorned with" or "embellished with" for varied nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

adorned with

Replaces the verb "decorated" with "adorned", implying a more elegant or elaborate embellishment.

embellished with

Similar to "adorned with", but suggests adding details to enhance beauty or style.

bedecked with

Implies covering something extensively with decorations, often in a festive manner.

festooned with

Suggests draping or hanging decorations, often in a curved or looping fashion.

ornamented with

Highlights the addition of ornaments or decorative items.

graced with

Implies that the addition of something enhances the elegance or beauty of the object.

trimmed with

Suggests adding a border or edge of decorative material.

outfitted with

Implies providing something with necessary or decorative equipment or supplies.

enhanced with

Focuses on the improvement or augmentation achieved by adding something.

detailed with

Emphasizes the presence of intricate or elaborate details.

FAQs

How can I use "be decorated with" in a sentence?

Use "be decorated with" to describe something that has been adorned or embellished with specific items. For example, "The room will "be decorated with" balloons and streamers for the party".

What are some alternatives to "be decorated with"?

Alternatives include "adorned with", "embellished with", or "festooned with", depending on the specific context and the desired nuance.

Is it correct to say "was decorated by" instead of "be decorated with"?

While grammatically correct, "was decorated by" implies the person or entity who did the decorating, whereas "be decorated with" focuses on the items used for decoration. For instance, "The cake was decorated by the baker" versus "The cake will "be decorated with" frosting flowers".

What's the difference between "be decorated with" and "feature"?

"Be decorated with" implies adding elements for aesthetic purposes. "Feature" means to include something as a prominent aspect or characteristic. For example, "The float will "be decorated with" lights", versus "The exhibit features historical artifacts".