be held in common

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be held in common" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express that something is shared or jointly possessed by a group of people or entities. Example: "The values of honesty and integrity should be held in common among all team members to foster a positive work environment."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Everything was to be held in common, including women.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Individuals were to own their homes; other land was to be held in common.

The New Yorker

He believes in culture as a civic right; in the importance of art as a precious resource to be held in common by the nation as a whole.

The Guardian - Arts

The Cossacks received two-thirds of the land, to be held in common, but in lieu of redemption payments they had to serve 20 years in the army.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It's the myth that matters: an inspiration to challenge arbitrary, despotic power; a seed for a democratic constitution; a right to be ruled by law; and even a claim that land be held in common, not enclosed for profit.

The Guardian - Opinion

Such resources should be held in common by all persons, and if there were any limits on population growth, they would be established automatically by the normal functioning of the perfected human society.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

Most land is held in common by the villagers.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Property was held in common and all details of daily life were regulated by officials.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Funds are held in common, with each member receiving an allowance.

Independent

Some land is held in common, some is privately owned and land rights often set off fierce fights.

The New York Times

In rural Mexico, land is held in common by a village or by farmers from neighboring communities.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be held in common", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being shared and by whom. This phrase is often used in discussions of resources, values, or beliefs within a group or community.

Common error

Avoid using "be held in common" in casual conversations or informal writing. It's generally more appropriate for academic, legal, or formal contexts. Simpler alternatives like "shared" or "jointly owned" may be better suited for everyday language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be held in common" functions as a passive verb phrase, typically indicating shared ownership, responsibility, or belief. It is used to express that something is jointly possessed or accepted by a group. Ludwig's examples showcase its application in diverse contexts, from land ownership to shared values.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Encyclopedias

25%

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be held in common" is a grammatically correct verb phrase that indicates shared ownership, beliefs, or responsibilities. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. While not exceedingly common, its presence in encyclopedias, news media, and scientific publications suggests a formal register. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity regarding what is being shared and by whom, as it's most effective in academic, legal, or formal settings. Remember that simpler alternatives like "shared" or "jointly owned" may be more suitable for casual contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be jointly owned

Focuses on the aspect of shared ownership rather than shared ideals or characteristics.

be mutually shared

Emphasizes the reciprocal aspect of sharing something.

be collectively possessed

Highlights the idea of a group possessing something together.

be shared by all

Simplifies the expression to emphasize universal sharing.

be commonly shared

Highlights the widespread nature of the shared element.

be universally accepted

Focuses on widespread agreement or adoption.

be jointly understood

Emphasizes shared comprehension or knowledge.

be a shared value

Specifically refers to shared values or principles.

be a common trait

Highlights a characteristic that is typical or widespread.

be in the public domain

Indicates that something is available for anyone to use.

FAQs

How can I use "be held in common" in a sentence?

You can use "be held in common" to describe resources, values, or beliefs that are shared by a group. For example, "The land is held in common by the villagers" or "These principles are held in common by all members of the organization".

What are some alternatives to "be held in common"?

Alternatives include "be jointly owned", "be mutually shared", or "be collectively possessed", depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "be held in common"?

"Be held in common" is suitable for formal writing, legal documents, and academic discussions where you want to emphasize shared ownership or beliefs. It's less appropriate for informal conversation.

What is the difference between "be held in common" and "shared"?

"Be held in common" suggests a more formal or structured arrangement of shared ownership or beliefs, often implying a community or group. "Shared" is a more general term and can apply in a wider range of contexts.