be described as

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be described as" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to explain the characteristics of someone or something. For example, "The new mobile phone can be described as sleek and lightweight."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The marriage cannot be described as happy.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It can certainly be described as momentous.

Independent

"Can it be described as a pandemic?

Independent

Exercise could be described as Nietzschean.

The New York Times

His results can be described as follows.

Encyclopedia Britannica

(The musical could be described as "Jane Eyre -lite Eyre -lite

The New York Times - Arts

''Legally, it can't be described as vinegar.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It might be described as agonizingly slow.

The New York Times - Food

It can only be described as elemental.

The New York Times

used to be described as "Tutsi rebels".

The New Yorker

"Putin's words can be described as prophetic".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be described as" when you want to provide a general characterization or impression of something, rather than a strict definition. For instance, "The event could be described as a success."

Common error

Avoid using "be described as" when a precise definition is required. Instead of saying, "A triangle can be described as a three-sided polygon", use "A triangle is a three-sided polygon".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be described as" serves as a descriptor, enabling speakers and writers to characterize subjects with certain qualities or attributes. This phrase introduces a subjective interpretation or general assessment, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be described as" is a versatile tool for providing characterizations and assessments. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used. It functions primarily as a descriptor, allowing for the expression of subjective interpretations across various registers. While it's essential to distinguish between description and definition, mastering the usage of "be described as" enhances one's ability to convey nuanced meaning in both writing and speech. Its frequency in news, science, and encyclopedic sources underscores its adaptability and relevance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be characterized as

Focuses on identifying distinct characteristics or qualities.

be defined as

Emphasizes providing a precise meaning or explanation.

be regarded as

Highlights a particular perception or opinion.

be considered as

Suggests a thoughtful evaluation or assessment.

be seen as

Implies a specific viewpoint or interpretation.

be labeled as

Focuses on assigning a specific category or designation.

be classified as

Involves organizing into a specific group or type.

be known as

Indicates a common or recognized name or title.

be referred to as

Suggests a specific term used to identify something.

be identified as

Emphasizes the act of recognizing or pinpointing something.

FAQs

How can I use "be described as" in a sentence?

Use "be described as" to give a general characterization or impression of something. For instance, "The movie can be described as a thrilling adventure."

What are some alternatives to "be described as"?

You can use alternatives like "be characterized as", "be defined as", or "be regarded as" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "is described as" or "can be described as"?

Both are grammatically correct. "Is described as" implies a current state or generally accepted characterization, while "can be described as" suggests a possibility or potential interpretation.

What's the difference between "be described as" and "be portrayed as"?

"Be described as" offers a general characterization, while "be portrayed as" implies a specific representation, often in media or art. For example, a politician can be described as charismatic, but be portrayed as ruthless in a film.