be put back

USAGE SUMMARY

'be put back' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate when something returns to its original or intended place. Example sentence: The books should be put back on the shelves after each use.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Can the jets be put back together again?

The New York Times

"The material stuff can be put back slowly".

The New York Times

This broken glass cannot be put back together.

The New Yorker

They were loose and could be put back.

The New York Times

They needed to be put back out in the sun.

The New Yorker

Of a thing which could not be put back.

The New Yorker

Neither it nor Turkish democracy can be put back.

The New York Times

Should Mondelez be put back together again with Kraft?

The New York Times

These pieces won't be put back together anytime soon.

The Washington Post

Can super PACs be put back in the box?

The Washington Post

"It just needs to be put back together".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be put back", ensure the context clearly indicates the original state or location to which something is being returned. This adds clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "be put back" when an active voice construction would be more direct and concise. For example, instead of "The book should be put back by you", write "You should put the book back".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "be put back" is to form a passive construction, indicating that an action is being performed on the subject. This construction allows the speaker to emphasize the object being acted upon rather than the actor. Ludwig provides examples from various sources, confirming its wide applicability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be put back" is a grammatically correct and frequently used passive verb phrase that describes the action of returning something to its original state or location. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its versatility allows for usage across various contexts, from news and media to academic and informal settings. While it is generally neutral in register, consider using more direct verbs in professional writing for conciseness. Common errors include overuse of the passive voice, so be mindful of active voice alternatives. By understanding its function and purpose, you can effectively incorporate "be put back" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be returned

Indicates a simple return to a previous location or state; less emphasis on the action of placing.

be restored

Suggests a return to a former condition or state of repair.

be reestablished

Refers to setting up something once again, often a system or organization.

be reinstated

Implies a return to a former position or status, often after a period of removal.

be reinserted

Implies placing something back into a specific slot or opening.

be replaced

Focuses on substituting something into a former location.

be remounted

Specifically means to attach something again, particularly in a physical sense.

be set back

Means to be delayed or postponed, often in the context of a plan or schedule.

be repositioned

Suggests adjusting the placement of something, possibly to its original location.

be relocated

Highlights the act of moving something to a different place, often one it previously occupied.

FAQs

How can I use "be put back" in a sentence?

You can use "be put back" when you want to express that something needs to return to its original position or condition. For instance, "The toys should "be put back" in the toy box after playing".

What's the difference between "be put back" and "be returned"?

"Be put back" usually implies a more deliberate action of placing something, whereas "be returned" can simply mean something went back on its own or was sent back.

What can I say instead of "be put back" to sound more formal?

In a more formal context, consider using "be restored" or "be reinstated", depending on the specific meaning you intend to convey.

Is it correct to use "be put back" in professional writing?

Yes, it is acceptable, but ensure the tone fits the context. Sometimes, a more direct verb like "restore" or "replace" might be more appropriate for conciseness and clarity.