be directed against a

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be directed against a" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where something is aimed at or intended to oppose a specific target or group. Example: "The new policy seems to be directed against a particular demographic, raising concerns about fairness."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

The biggest problem with the current law is that an act of bias must be directed against a specific individual to be prosecuted.

The New York Times

If criticism is to be made, it should be directed against a tendency towards Imperial centralisation, which might possibly be promoted by this move of the Viceroy's seat to Delhi.

The Economist

He said that when attacks abroad were thought to be directed against a government, the United Nations took no action to protect itself but that the practice must now change.

The New York Times

The hatred may be directed against a public figure or a personally known individual, for a variety of reasons.

Plosone

Since the immunization was performed using bacterially produced rmPrP23-231 whish is not glycosylated, the paratopes are unlikely to be directed against a glycan epitope.

Plosone

ACPA can be directed against a number of citrullinated autoantigens.

Arthritis Research and Therapy

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Socialist, of course, is as grave a slur as can be directed against an American politician.

The Guardian - Film

According to Captain Gerald Mauer, the road map notes that information operations would be directed against an "adversary".

The Guardian

No boycott, in our sense of the term, should be directed against an individual, a people, or a nation as such.

The Guardian - Opinion

Unlike romantic love, it need not be directed against an individual; it may instead assume many varieties, being directed against an individual, a society, or an ethnic group.

Plosone

These comments were directed against a section of our community.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be directed against a", ensure the target is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For instance, "The new policy is directed against a specific type of transaction" is clearer than "The new policy is directed against something."

Common error

A common mistake is omitting the subject performing the action. To avoid confusion, clearly state who or what is doing the directing, or ensure it's evident from the context. For example, instead of "Actions were directed against a target", specify "The military actions were directed against a fortified target."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be directed against a" functions as a passive construction, indicating that a particular action, criticism, or measure is targeted or aimed at a specific entity. Ludwig's examples showcase its use in various contexts, from legal matters to scientific research.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

52%

News & Media

44%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be directed against a" is a versatile phrase used to indicate that something is targeted toward a specific entity, often implying opposition or focus. Ludwig AI confirms the grammatical correctness and usability of the phrase, which appears in both news and scientific contexts. While the phrase itself is acceptable, careful consideration should be given to the clarity and precision of the subject performing the action. Alternatives like "be aimed at a" or "be targeted at a" can be used depending on the desired nuance. Overall, understanding its function and purpose ensures its appropriate and effective use in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be aimed at a

This alternative emphasizes the intention or purpose of targeting something specifically.

be targeted at a

Similar to "be aimed at a", this phrase highlights the specific focus of the action.

be focused on a

This suggests a concentration of effort or attention towards a particular target.

be concentrated on a

Similar to 'be focused on a', this signifies that efforts are heavily centered on the target.

be geared towards a

This implies that something is designed or organized to oppose a specific entity.

be intended for a

This signifies the purpose or objective for the action, implying a planned direction.

be leveled at a

This phrase is often used when referring to criticism or accusations.

be channeled towards a

This suggests directing resources or energy toward a specific objective.

be brought to bear on a

This idiom indicates applying pressure or influence on something.

be set upon a

This suggests an attack or concentrated effort against a specific target.

FAQs

How can I use "be directed against a" in a sentence?

You can use "be directed against a" to indicate that something is aimed or targeted at a specific person, group, or thing. For example, "The marketing campaign was directed against a younger demographic."

What are some alternatives to "be directed against a"?

Some alternatives include "be aimed at a", "be targeted at a", or "be focused on a", depending on the context.

Is it better to use active or passive voice with "be directed against a"?

While "be directed against a" is in the passive voice, active voice may be clearer in some cases. For example, instead of "The criticism was directed against a specific policy", you could say "Critics directed their criticism against a specific policy."

What's the difference between "be directed against a" and "be aimed at a"?

"Be directed against a" often implies opposition or conflict, while "be aimed at a" is more neutral and can simply mean intending to reach a particular audience or achieve a specific goal.