be given

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be given" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that something was allocated to someone or something. For example: "The responsibility should be given to the most qualified candidate."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

No refund will be given".

The New York Times

Carlo will be given time.

Independent

Programmes have to be given time.

The Guardian

Early warning would be given of problems.

The Economist

Youngsters will be given a chance.

The Guardian - Sport

You should be given bonus pay.

The New York Times - Magazine

Whose needs should be given more importance?

The New York Times

Everyone should be given the same chance'.

Independent

She should be given more airtime.

The New York Times - Food

Both should be given final approval.

The New York Times

Everything else had to be given away.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be given", ensure the passive voice construction is appropriate for your context. It's best when the actor is unknown or unimportant.

Common error

Avoid using "be given" excessively, as it can make your writing sound indirect and weak. Active voice is often more concise and impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be given" functions as a passive construction, indicating that the subject is receiving something rather than performing an action. As Ludwig AI states, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Wiki

23%

Science

21%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be given" is a versatile passive construction widely used to indicate that something is received or allocated. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and applicable across numerous contexts. While generally neutral in tone, it appears more frequently in News & Media and Wiki sources. To avoid overuse and maintain writing strength, consider active voice alternatives when appropriate. Remember to choose alternative phrasing like "be granted" or "be provided" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. By understanding its function and purpose, you can effectively incorporate "be given" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be granted

Replaces "given" with "granted", emphasizing a more formal or official act of bestowal.

be provided

Substitutes "given" with "provided", focusing on the act of supplying or making available.

be awarded

Replaces "given" with "awarded", implying recognition or merit in the act of bestowing something.

be allocated

Substitutes "given" with "allocated", emphasizing a formal distribution or assignment.

be presented with

Changes the structure to "be presented with", focusing on the recipient's experience of receiving.

be conferred on

Replaces "given" with "conferred on", suggesting a formal or ceremonial bestowal.

be bestowed upon

Substitutes "given" with "bestowed upon", emphasizing a gracious or generous act of giving.

be handed over

Replaces "given" with "handed over", focusing on the physical act of transferring possession.

be supplied with

Changes the structure to "be supplied with", emphasizing the act of furnishing or equipping.

be furnished with

Similar to 'be supplied with', but suggests providing something necessary or useful.

FAQs

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

The phrase "be given" is used to indicate that someone or something receives something. For example, "The award will be given to the most deserving candidate."

What's the difference between "be given" and "be granted"?

While both phrases imply bestowal, "be granted" often suggests a more formal or official act of giving, such as permission or rights, while "be given" is more general.

What are some alternatives to "be given"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "be provided", "be awarded", or "be allocated".

Is it always better to use active voice instead of "be given"?

Not always. Passive voice with "be given" is useful when the recipient is more important than the giver or when the giver is unknown. However, active voice is generally more direct and concise.