be left behind

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be left behind" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express the idea of someone or something not keeping up with others or being excluded from a group or situation. Example: "In the fast-paced world of technology, those who do not adapt may be left behind."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Watch out or you'll be left behind!

The New Yorker

Items may be left behind, including notes, fingerprints, and footprints.

Security Informatics

"No country's people should be left behind without help".

Science Magazine

Nobody will be left behind".

The New York Times

be left behind.

The Guardian - Books

The hapless tourist will be left behind".

Independent

No one wants to be left behind.

The New York Times

One passenger will actually be left behind.

The New Yorker

Guns have to be left behind.

The New Yorker

Hundreds of cars will be left behind.

The New York Times

You will be left behind".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be left behind", consider the specific context to ensure the phrase accurately reflects the intended meaning. Alternatives like "fall behind" or "be excluded" may be more appropriate depending on the situation.

Common error

Avoid using "be left behind" when an active construction is more direct and clear. For example, instead of "Those who didn't register were left behind", try "The organizers left behind those who didn't register".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be left behind" functions primarily as a verb phrase expressing a passive condition. It describes the state of being excluded, surpassed, or outdated due to a failure to keep up with progress or changing circumstances. Ludwig provides numerous examples showcasing this function across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be left behind" functions as a passive verb phrase used to caution about the consequences of not keeping up with progress or changes. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in News & Media. The phrase conveys a sense of urgency or potential loss. While generally neutral in register, its specific formality depends on context. When using "be left behind", consider the intended meaning and explore alternatives such as "fall behind" or "be excluded" for nuanced communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fall behind

Suggests a gradual decline in progress compared to others.

be outdated

Implies becoming obsolete or no longer current, particularly in a technological or trend-related context.

be surpassed

Focuses on being exceeded or outdone by someone or something else.

be excluded

Focuses on the act of being deliberately kept out of a group or activity.

miss the boat

An idiomatic expression for missing an opportunity.

be superseded

Implies being replaced by something newer or more effective.

be forgotten

Highlights the aspect of being overlooked or no longer remembered.

be marginalized

Highlights the process of being pushed to the edge or periphery of a group or society.

be abandoned

Emphasizes the sense of being deserted or forsaken.

lose out

Suggests failing to gain an advantage or benefit.

FAQs

How can I use "be left behind" in a sentence?

The phrase "be left behind" indicates that someone or something is not progressing at the same rate as others and risks being excluded or becoming obsolete. For example, "If you don't adapt to the new technology, you'll "fall behind" and "be left behind"".

What does "be left behind" mean?

It means to be surpassed, forgotten, or excluded due to a failure to keep pace with progress or changing circumstances. It often carries a negative connotation, implying a loss or disadvantage.

Are there any synonyms for "be left behind"?

Yes, some synonyms include "fall behind", "be excluded", "be outdated", "miss the boat", and "be surpassed". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Which is correct, "be left behind" or "being left behind"?

"Be left behind" is typically used in future or conditional statements, while "being left behind" is often used in continuous tenses or as a gerund. For example, "They don't want to "be left behind"" vs. "The fear of "being left behind" motivates many to innovate".