be derivative

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be derivative" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that lacks originality or is based on the work of others. Example: "The film was criticized for being derivative, as it borrowed heavily from several classic movies without adding anything new."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We can't be derivative".

The Guardian

The work may be derivative, but it is by no means slavish imitation.

The New York Times

"The last thing I wanted was to be derivative," he said.

The New York Times

Most stockholder claims for breach of fiduciary duty will be derivative in nature.

Columbia University

Finally, germane to Harper Simon: do the children of superstar musicians have more "right" to be derivative?

The Guardian - Music

This will seep in to your own work, which may be derivative at first but this does not matter.

The New Yorker

He can be derivative (though his borrowings are so frank as to be tributes rather than thefts).

The New Yorker

But their attempts to compete head-on continue to be derivative and, at times, silly.

The New York Times

So the name may be derivative, but Cadillac insists the car is not.

The New York Times

10 "Such liability will not be derivative or vicarious in nature, nor will it be constructive rather than actual.

Harvard University

It may be crap, it may be derivative - Jeff Koons should probably sue - but it doesn't fall into a neat division of concept versus craft.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When critiquing creative work, use "be derivative" to precisely convey that the work lacks originality and relies too heavily on existing sources. This avoids ambiguity and provides a clear assessment of the work's weaknesses.

Common error

Avoid using "be derivative" too frequently in your own creative writing. While accurate, it can sound overly critical or academic. Consider using more nuanced language to describe a lack of originality, such as "lack imagination" or "be predictable".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be derivative" functions as a predicative adjective, describing a subject as lacking originality and being heavily influenced by other sources. Ludwig confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

24%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be derivative" is used to describe something that lacks originality and relies heavily on existing sources. Ludwig AI confirms it as grammatically correct, with frequent usage across various domains including news, science, and academia. While generally neutral, its formality can increase based on context. If you intend to highlight a lack of creativity, you can use alternative expressions like "lack originality" or "be unoriginal". When writing, be precise in your usage to avoid overuse of the phrase in a creative context. Ludwig can help ensure you use the phrase correctly and effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lack originality

Emphasizes the absence of original thought or creation.

be unoriginal

Directly states the absence of originality.

be imitative

Highlights the act of copying or imitating others.

be copied

Focuses on the act of being replicated or reproduced from another source.

be second-hand

Suggests something obtained indirectly or lacking firsthand experience.

be borrowed

Indicates the use of elements or ideas taken from another source.

echo

Implies a resemblance or similarity to something else, often in a less forceful way than direct imitation.

resemble

Indicates a similarity in appearance or characteristics.

mirror

Suggests a very close and often exact resemblance.

be based on

Indicates that something is developed from or originates in another source.

FAQs

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

You can use "be derivative" to describe something that is unoriginal or heavily influenced by another source. For example: "The film was criticized for being derivative, as it borrowed heavily from several classic movies."

What does it mean for something to "be derivative"?

When something is said to "be derivative", it means that it lacks originality and is largely based on existing works or ideas. It implies a lack of innovation or unique contribution.

Which is a better term: "be derivative" or "lack originality"?

Both "be derivative" and "lack originality" are acceptable. "Be derivative" is more formal and technical, while "lack originality" is more direct and easily understood.

What are some alternatives to saying something "be derivative"?

You can use alternatives like "be unoriginal", "be imitative", or "be second-hand" depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.