be entangled in

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be entangled in" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone is involved in a complex or difficult circumstance, often with negative connotations. Example: "She seemed to be entangled in a web of lies that made it hard for her to find the truth."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

"Nepal will be entangled in complications," he says.

The Economist

I Three qubits can be entangled in two inequivalent ways.

Nature

The worry is that the fate of the island will be entangled in red tape and indecision.

The New York Times

Sarkozy will appeal, but could well be entangled in a legal process that might take years to unravel.

The Guardian - Opinion

I am new at this but my question is that can paticles be entangled in a star?

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Prosecutors investigating Ms. Rodriguez said they concluded that Mr. Ostreicher could be entangled in the laundering of "capital of dubious origin".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

Still, Pellizotti is entangled in his doping case.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr Roh's family is entangled in a corruption investigation.

The Economist

He has been entangled in doping scandals of his own.

The New York Times - Sports

Five pink women are entangled in silver and blue draperies.

The Guardian

The first two questions are entangled in a fierce debate.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be entangled in" to describe situations where someone or something is deeply involved in a complex or problematic issue. It often implies a lack of control or difficulty in extricating oneself.

Common error

Avoid using "be entangled in" when a simpler phrase like "be involved in" or "be part of" would suffice. The phrase carries a connotation of complexity and potential negativity, so reserve it for situations where those elements are genuinely present.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be entangled in" functions primarily as a verb phrase indicating a state of involvement in a complex, often problematic, situation. Ludwig AI shows this across diverse contexts, from legal battles to personal dramas. It suggests a lack of ease or freedom from the situation.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

29%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be entangled in" is a versatile expression used to describe involvement in complex or problematic situations. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it frequently appears in News & Media, Science, and Academic contexts. While grammatically correct and commonly used, it's important to reserve it for situations that genuinely warrant the connotation of complexity and difficulty. Alternatives like ""be caught up in"" or ""be involved in"" may be more appropriate for simpler contexts. Understanding these nuances ensures precise and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be caught up in

Focuses more on being unintentionally involved or absorbed in a situation.

be embroiled in

Suggests a more contentious and complicated involvement, often with negative connotations.

be enmeshed in

Emphasizes being deeply and intricately involved, almost to the point of being trapped.

be implicated in

Highlights a connection to something, often a crime or scandal, implying responsibility or involvement.

be associated with

Indicates a link or connection, which may not necessarily be negative or complex.

be bound up in

Implies that something is closely connected and difficult to separate from something else.

be wrapped up in

Suggests being fully absorbed or preoccupied with something.

be mired in

Indicates being stuck or trapped in a difficult or unpleasant situation.

be consumed by

Highlights the extent to which a person's thoughts or actions become dominated by something.

be Engrossed in

Suggests being completely occupied or interested in something.

FAQs

How can I use "be entangled in" in a sentence?

You can use "be entangled in" to describe a situation where someone or something is deeply involved in a complex or problematic issue. For example, "The company became entangled in a legal battle" or "She didn't want to "be embroiled in" their personal drama".

What are some alternatives to "be entangled in"?

Alternatives to "be entangled in" include "be caught up in", "be embroiled in", "be involved in", or "be mixed up in", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "be entangled in" or "be involved in"?

The choice between "be entangled in" and "be involved in" depends on the context. "Be entangled in" suggests a more complex or problematic situation, while "be involved in" is more neutral and simply indicates participation or connection.

What does "be entangled in" imply?

"Be entangled in" implies a state of being deeply involved in a complex or difficult situation, often suggesting a lack of control or difficulty in extricating oneself. It can also suggest negative consequences or complications.