be described by

USAGE SUMMARY

"be described by" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It can be used when explaining or defining something. For example: - The painting can best be described by its use of vibrant colors and complex brushstrokes. - The concept of love can be described by its many different forms and expressions. - The city's culture can be described by its diverse population and rich history. - The character's personality can be described by their actions and words throughout the story.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The Greeks believed beauty can be described by numbers.

The Guardian - Opinion

My feeling about this resource of the people could best be described by Groucho Marx.

The New York Times

He felt that God can only be described by observing God's effect on the world.

The New York Times

Education and rehabilitation provide opportunities for a life to be described by more than one descriptor.

The Guardian - Opinion

The pattern can be described by what scientists call a power law.

The New York Times - Science

Show me someone who can be described by one adjective and I'll show you someone dangerous.

The Guardian - Sport

Dissolution of diopside can be described by.

Geochemical Transactions

This operation can be described by (11).

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

All present conditions can be described by linear programming.

Journal of the Franklin Institute

These effects can be described by introducing an interference factor.

Journal of Wind Engineering and Industrial Aerodynamics

Therefore the indentation curves can be described by few parameters.

Computational Materials Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be described by", ensure that the descriptive elements accurately reflect the subject's key attributes or qualities. Use precise language to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

While "be described by" is grammatically sound, overuse can lead to passive voice. Consider active constructions where appropriate for more direct and engaging writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be described by" functions as a linking verb phrase, connecting a subject to a descriptive element. It indicates that the subject possesses certain characteristics or qualities, as confirmed by Ludwig's examples. The phrase serves to define or explain the nature of the subject.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

58%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be described by" is a grammatically sound and very common expression used to define or characterize a subject based on its attributes. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and prevalent use across both scientific and journalistic contexts. When employing this phrase, ensure accuracy in your descriptions and be mindful of potential passive voice constructions. Alternatives like "be characterized by" or "be defined by" can add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be characterized by

This alternative focuses on the distinguishing traits or features that define something.

be defined by

This option emphasizes the essential qualities that determine the nature of something.

be identified by

This alternative highlights the elements that allow something to be recognized or distinguished.

be represented by

This phrase suggests that something is a symbol or example of something else.

be exemplified by

This option indicates that something serves as a typical example of something else.

be illustrated by

This alternative implies that something is clarified or explained through examples or instances.

be marked by

This phrase emphasizes the presence of distinctive features or characteristics.

be known for

This alternative highlights a particular quality or attribute that something is famous or recognized for.

be distinguished by

This option emphasizes the features that set something apart from others.

be expressed through

This alternative focuses on how something is conveyed or communicated.

FAQs

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

The phrase "be described by" is used to indicate the attributes or characteristics that define something. For example, "The artwork can "be described by" its vibrant colors and unique style."

What are some alternatives to "be described by"?

Alternatives include "be characterized by", "be defined by", or "be represented by". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use active or passive voice with "be described by"?

While "be described by" is in the passive voice, it is often suitable when the subject receiving the description is the focus. However, using the active voice can sometimes create a more direct and engaging sentence. For example, instead of "The landscape can "be described by" rolling hills", you could write "Rolling hills describe the landscape".

What's the difference between "be described by" and "be known for"?

"Be described by" generally refers to a comprehensive set of attributes, while "be known for" highlights a specific, often prominent, characteristic. For instance, a city might "be described by" its architecture, culture, and history, but "be known for" its famous landmark.