be derived from a

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be derived from a" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the origin or source of something, particularly in academic or formal contexts. Example: "The theory can be derived from a combination of previous research findings."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The name Syosset may be derived from a Matinecock word meaning a place in the pines.

The New York Times

These alternative pathways may be derived from a spatial specialization of BR functions within the root.

Nature

This information must ultimately be derived from a nucleic acid sequence.

Britannica

A power to put in jail because dangerous cannot be derived from a power to deport.

Cornell University

The name is thought to be derived from a Native American word meaning "beautiful land".

Encyclopedia Britannica

A judicial standard must be judicially discernible — it has to be derived from a specific right given in the Constitution.

The Washington Post

It is not invariably necessary for the regenerating tissue to be derived from a remnant of the original tissue.

Britannica

This explains how electricity can be derived from a chemical reaction.

Power Generation Technologies

This viral gene was subsequently named v-src, and found to be derived from a cellular gene, called c-src.

University of California, Berkeley

Conifer leaves have parallel veins, a feature that may be derived from a cordaitean of aneurophyte ancestor.

University of California, Berkeley

An idea of the quality and nature of Witherspoon's mind can be derived from a look at his personal library.

Princeton University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be derived from a" when you want to emphasize the process or method by which something originates, especially in formal or academic writing.

Common error

While "be derived from a" is grammatically correct, overuse of passive voice can make your writing sound weak. Consider using active voice alternatives when appropriate to make your sentences more direct and engaging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be derived from a" functions as a passive voice construction indicating the origin or source of something. As shown by Ludwig, this construction is used to explain how something originates or is obtained from a specific source. It often appears in explanations and definitions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

24%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be derived from a" serves as a crucial linguistic tool for indicating the source or origin of various concepts, ideas, and entities. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and frequently used across diverse fields, including science, news, academia, and encyclopedias. Analysis reveals that the phrase often appears in formal contexts, particularly in scientific and academic writing, where precision in conveying the etymology or provenance of something is essential. While the phrase is deemed grammatically sound by Ludwig, mindful use and consideration of active voice alternatives can enhance writing clarity and engagement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

originate from a

Focuses on the point of origin or beginning.

stem from a

Implies a causal relationship, where one thing grows or develops from another.

arise from a

Suggests emergence or appearance as a result of something.

be sourced from a

Highlights the place or entity from which something is obtained.

be extracted from a

Emphasizes the process of taking something out of something else.

be obtained from a

Focuses on the act of getting or acquiring something from a source.

be traced back to a

Implies discovering the historical or developmental origin.

be created from a

Indicates the materials or elements used in making something.

be developed from a

Focuses on the process of growth or evolution from a starting point.

come from a

A simpler, more direct way of indicating origin.

FAQs

How can I use "be derived from a" in a sentence?

The phrase "be derived from a" indicates the origin or source of something. For example, "The formula can "be derived from a" set of basic principles."

What can I say instead of "be derived from a"?

You can use alternatives like "originate from a", "stem from a", or "arise from a" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "is derived from" or "derives from"?

"Is derived from" is passive voice, while "derives from" is active voice. Choose the active voice ("derives from") when you want to emphasize the subject performing the action. For example, "The word derives from Latin" is more direct than "The word is derived from Latin."

Which is correct, "be derived from" or "being derived from"?

"Be derived from" is typically used in sentences expressing general truths or definitions. "Being derived from" is used to describe a continuous or ongoing process. For example, "The chemical compound is derived from natural sources" versus "The compound is currently being derived from experimental processes."