be representative of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be representative of" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to express the idea of something being typical or an example of a larger group or concept. For example, "The movie is representative of the entire genre of romantic comedies."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Legislatures should be representative of the voters.

Princeton University

Results were weighted to be representative of all small businesses.

The New York Times

Data were weighted to be representative of the constituency.

Independent

Data were weighted to be representative of all GB adults.

Independent

Certain adverbs are shown to be representative of complex belief structures.

Stanford University

On another level, it is perceived to be representative of "transplanted" Indian culture as a whole.

University of Pennsylvania

// OSNXs will be representative of breathing while LightXs are repr. of light stim.

Yale University

These may not be representative of the research and paradigms currently being used in the lab.

Columbia University

Exemptions on IRS tax returns are assumed to be representative of the under 65 population.

Princeton University

In addition, the study subjects may not be representative of the population at large.

Harvard University

But the samples are constructed to be representative of the population.

Stanford University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be representative of", ensure that the sample or subject truly reflects the characteristics of the larger group or concept you are describing. Avoid generalizations based on limited or biased data.

Common error

Avoid claiming something "is representative of" a larger group without sufficient evidence or data to support that claim. Always acknowledge potential limitations or biases in your sample or observations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be representative of" functions as a predicate adjective phrase. It describes a subject by attributing the quality of being typical or characteristic of a larger group or whole. This is evidenced by Ludwig examples where various subjects, such as surveys, data, or samples, are described in terms of their representativeness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

32%

News & Media

39%

Science

29%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be representative of" is a common and grammatically correct predicate adjective phrase used to indicate that something accurately reflects the characteristics of a larger group. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's appropriate across varied contexts, particularly in academia, news, and scientific writing. To use it effectively, ensure that the subject genuinely mirrors the broader category and avoid overstating representativeness without sufficient backing. Remember that selecting this expression presupposes the writer wishes to communicate information in formal register.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be indicative of

Focuses on showing or suggesting something is the case.

typify

Highlights the characteristic features of a group or category.

embody

Suggests giving a tangible form to an idea or quality.

exemplify

Emphasizes serving as a clear example or illustration.

epitomize

Focuses on being a perfect example or embodiment of something.

mirror

Highlights reflecting or closely resembling something else.

correspond to

Highlights a close similarity or equivalence.

stand for

Implies symbolizing or advocating for something.

be a symbol of

Implies representing something through association or convention.

act as a proxy for

Suggests representing something indirectly or on behalf of it.

FAQs

How can I use "be representative of" in a sentence?

You can use "be representative of" to indicate that something is typical or characteristic of a larger group. For example, "This survey data is representative of the opinions of the entire customer base."

What are some alternatives to "be representative of"?

Alternatives include "exemplify", "typify", or "be indicative of". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

How do I ensure my sample is representative of the population?

To ensure your sample is representative, use random sampling techniques, increase the sample size, and consider stratification to account for key demographic variables. Also, avoid any biases. If there are biases, you may consider weighting the result of the study.

When is it inappropriate to say something "is representative of" a group?

It's inappropriate when the sample is too small, biased, or doesn't accurately reflect the characteristics of the overall population. For instance, drawing conclusions about an entire country based only on the opinion of voters from one particular region is not representative.