be decreed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be decreed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in formal contexts, particularly in legal or official documents, to indicate that something is ordered or mandated by an authority. Example: "It shall be decreed that all citizens must adhere to the new regulations set forth by the governing body."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

But unity cannot be decreed in a conference chamber in Brussels.

The Economist

Both teams achieved clean sweeps, yet for both the tour could be decreed a failure.

Independent

It couldn't just be decreed because no one has the power to decree it," she said.

The Guardian

Raúl said that a special law would be decreed to enshrine that final wish of Fidel's.

The New Yorker

In some countries the initiation of liquidation may also be decreed by the court ex officio or upon petition by public officials.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"What citizens do online should not, as some have suggested, be decreed solely by groups of governments making decisions for them somewhere on high," he said via a video-link address from Washington.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

The sentence has been decreed.

The New York Times

And it was what had been decreed.

The New York Times

Death was decreed for this Steppenwolf".

The Guardian - Books

So the punishment has already been decreed.

The New York Times - Magazine

Days of prayer, fasting, and humiliation were decreed.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be decreed", ensure the context clearly indicates who or what authority is issuing the decree. This avoids ambiguity and strengthens the impact of the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "be decreed" when the source of the order or decision is unclear or lacks legitimate authority. This can weaken your argument and make it seem unsubstantiated.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be decreed" functions as a passive verb phrase, indicating that something is being officially ordered or determined. This usage emphasizes the action being taken upon a subject by an authority.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be decreed" is a formal way to indicate that something has been officially ordered or decided. While grammatically correct and usable, as affirmed by Ludwig AI, it's important to consider the context and audience. As Ludwig's examples show, this phrase is most commonly found in news, encyclopedias, and scientific contexts, indicating its formal register. Using alternatives like "be mandated" or "be ordered" can provide more flexibility depending on the specific meaning you want to convey. Remember to ensure the authority issuing the decree is clear to avoid any ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be mandated

Replaces 'decreed' with 'mandated', implying a requirement or obligation imposed by authority; slightly stronger in tone.

be ordained

Substitutes 'decreed' with 'ordained', suggesting a divine or higher authority has made the decision; more formal and often used in religious contexts.

be stipulated

Replaces 'decreed' with 'stipulated', emphasizing a specific condition or requirement that has been agreed upon or set forth; more formal and technical.

be enacted

Substitutes 'decreed' with 'enacted', indicating a law or regulation has been formally passed or put into effect; common in legal or political contexts.

be ruled

Replaces 'decreed' with 'ruled', suggesting a judicial or authoritative judgment has been made; more direct and action-oriented.

be proclaimed

Substitutes 'decreed' with 'proclaimed', emphasizing a public announcement or declaration; often used for significant or formal events.

be legislated

Replaces 'decreed' with 'legislated', indicating a law has been created through a legislative process; more focused on the process of lawmaking.

be commanded

Substitutes 'decreed' with 'commanded', highlighting the authoritative and imperative nature of the order; can sound more forceful.

be prescribed

Replaces 'decreed' with 'prescribed', emphasizing a set of rules or procedures that must be followed; often used in medical or technical contexts.

be sanctioned

Substitutes 'decreed' with 'sanctioned', highlighting official approval or authorization; implies a formal endorsement or permission.

FAQs

How to use "be decreed" in a sentence?

Use "be decreed" to indicate that something is officially ordered or decided by an authority. For example, "It was "decreed" that all citizens must pay taxes".

What can I say instead of "be decreed"?

Alternatives include "be mandated", "be ordained", or "be stipulated", depending on the context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is "be decreed" formal or informal?

"Be decreed" is generally considered a formal phrase, often used in legal, official, or literary contexts. In more casual settings, alternatives like "be ordered" or "be decided" might be more appropriate.

What is the difference between "be decreed" and "be ordered"?

"Be decreed" implies a formal and authoritative pronouncement, often with legal or official weight. "Be ordered" is more general and can apply to any instruction, regardless of formality.