be done by

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be done by" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate a deadline or the latest time by which something should be completed. Example: "The project must be done by Friday to meet the client's expectations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Much work will be done by contractors.

The New York Times

"It will be done by 4 today".

The New York Times

Even housework would be done by robots.

The New Yorker

It can be done by hard work.

The New York Times

This must be done by MacCHESS staff.

Cornell University

Ideally, this will be done by governments.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

It will not be done by desire.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Those still must be done by hand.

The Washington Post

That won't be done by throwing bottles.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

This can be done by completing the Scholar Departure Form.

Yale University

Basically, this will be done by varying cut conditions.

Journal of Materials Processing Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When setting deadlines, clearly specify who is responsible for completing the task with the phrase "be done by" to ensure accountability.

Common error

Avoid using "be done by" without specifying a clear date or time. For example, instead of saying "It needs to be done by someone", specify "It needs to be done by John by Friday."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be done by" primarily functions as part of a passive construction, indicating either the agent responsible for completing an action or setting a deadline for completion. Ludwig examples show both usages, confirming its versatility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Academia

29%

Science

24%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be done by" is a grammatically sound and versatile expression used to specify who is responsible for completing a task or to indicate a deadline. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is correct and widespread across various contexts. Its frequency in news, academic, and scientific sources demonstrates its broad applicability. To enhance clarity, ensure the responsible party or completion date is clearly stated. Alternative phrases like "be completed by" can provide a more formal tone when needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be completed by

Emphasizes the action of completing something within a specific timeframe.

to be finished by

Similar to 'completed by', but with a slightly less formal tone.

to be carried out by

Focuses on the execution or performance of a task by a particular entity.

to be executed by

Implies a more formal or structured approach to task completion by someone.

to be achieved by

Highlights the accomplishment or attainment of a goal through someone's efforts.

to be handled by

Indicates responsibility and management of a task by a specific person or group.

to be undertaken by

Suggests the commencement and execution of a project or task by someone.

to be performed by

Focuses on the action of carrying out a task, often in a professional or technical context.

to be fulfilled by

Highlights the act of meeting a requirement or obligation through someone's actions.

to be realized by

Emphasizes the manifestation or actualization of something as a result of someone's work.

FAQs

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

The phrase "be done by" indicates a deadline or the party responsible for completing a task. For example, "The report must be done by Friday", or "The repairs will be done by a qualified technician".

What's a formal alternative to "be done by"?

In formal contexts, you can replace "be done by" with alternatives such as "be completed by" or "be executed by" to maintain a professional tone.

Is it correct to say "be done by"?

Yes, it's grammatically correct. Ludwig AI confirms that "be done by" is a standard phrase to express a deadline or the agent of completion.

What does "be done by" mean?

The expression "be done by" indicates the latest time something should be completed or who is responsible for completing it. For instance, "The assignment needs to be done by the end of the day" means it must be finished before the day ends.