be in bed with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be in bed with" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a close or collusive relationship, often with a negative connotation, particularly in political or business contexts. Example: "The politician was criticized for being in bed with corporate lobbyists, raising concerns about his integrity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

"I can't be in bed with everybody," he said.

The New York Times

We didn't ask to be in bed with Equifax and couldn't get out if we tried.

The New York Times

"I would never be in bed with my characters," she says.

The Guardian - Books

You can be a proud Alabamian and not be in bed with white supremacists.

The New Yorker

He directed a scene in which the actor was to be in bed with Perry King.

The Guardian - Books

The original story line called for the president to be in bed with just the flu.

The New York Times - Health

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

It's in bed with Goldman Sachs.

The New Yorker

We're in bed with each other.

The New York Times

"He was in bed with his wife.

The New Yorker

They're in bed with the Ulster Unionists.

The Guardian - Opinion

She was in bed with a migraine.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To be more precise, make sure to specify who is "in bed with" whom, as this is crucial to understanding the nature and extent of the relationship being described.

Common error

Avoid using "be in bed with" when you simply mean 'cooperating with' or 'partnering with' in a positive and transparent manner. The phrase often suggests hidden agendas or unethical alliances.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be in bed with" functions as an idiomatic expression used to describe a close or collusive relationship between two or more parties. Ludwig AI indicates that this expression is commonly used to imply a negative connotation, often suggesting unethical or self-serving alliances. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its use in political and business contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be in bed with" is an idiomatic expression commonly used to describe a close or collusive relationship, often carrying negative connotations of unethical or self-serving alliances. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage frequently implies disapproval or suspicion, particularly in political and business contexts. When writing, consider the implications carefully to avoid misinterpretations. Alternatives like "allied with" or "collaborating with" may be more appropriate when describing positive or neutral relationships. Ultimately, understanding its nuanced meaning helps ensure clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

colluding with

Focuses on secret cooperation for illegal or deceitful purposes.

in cahoots with

Suggests a secret and often illicit partnership.

hand in glove with

Implies a close, comfortable, and often suspicious relationship.

in league with

Implies a secret or nefarious alliance.

allied with

Emphasizes a formal agreement or partnership.

associated with

Suggests a connection or relationship, but not necessarily a collusive one.

in partnership with

Highlights a cooperative business or professional relationship.

in collaboration with

Highlights a joint effort or project.

on good terms with

Suggests a friendly or cooperative relationship.

affiliated with

Indicates a formal connection or association.

FAQs

What does it mean to say someone is "in bed with" someone else?

Saying someone is "in bed with" someone else typically means they have a close, often inappropriate or collusive relationship. It suggests a level of cooperation that may be unethical or self-serving.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "be in bed with"?

It's appropriate when you want to imply a questionable alliance or collusion between parties, particularly in business or politics, where such relationships might raise ethical concerns. Ensure your evidence supports this implication.

What are some alternatives to "be in bed with" that don't carry negative connotations?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "allied with", "associated with", or "collaborating with" to describe a cooperative relationship without suggesting impropriety.

Is it grammatically correct to say "be in bed with"?

Yes, the phrase "be in bed with" is grammatically correct and is a common idiom in English. However, it's crucial to use it in the appropriate context, considering its negative implications.