be represented by

USAGE SUMMARY

"be represented by" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is used to describe someone or something that serves as a symbol or stands in for someone or something else. Example: The red apple can be represented by the letter "A" in this math equation.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

India will be represented by several more.

The Economist

(The Netherlands will be represented by Rabobank).

The New York Times - Sports

Others will be represented by their ambassadors.

The Guardian

Michel Fokine will be represented by "Chopiniana".

The New York Times - Arts

He will be represented by Gaylord Sports Management.

The New York Times - Sports

"People cannot be represented by their warlords," he said.

The New York Times

Mr. Schoeller is to be represented by "Incantations".

The New York Times

Australia will be represented by Treasury official Chris Legg.

The Guardian - Business

She will be represented by first amendment lawyer Cary Wiggins.

The Guardian

David Cameron should be represented by an empty chair.

The Guardian

The Queen will be represented by the Duke of Gloucester.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Be precise about the aspect or quality being represented. For instance, specify whether someone is represented legally, artistically, or symbolically.

Common error

Avoid using "be represented by" in contexts where the nature of representation is unclear. For example, instead of saying "The company will be represented by someone", specify "The company will be legally represented by its CEO."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be represented by" functions as a passive voice construction, indicating that a subject is acting as a symbol, agent, or depiction of something else. Ludwig's examples showcase its wide application, from legal representation to symbolic representation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

42%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be represented by" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression that indicates a relationship of symbolization or agency. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is commonly used and generally deemed correct. Its presence is especially strong in News & Media and Scientific sources, yet suitable for a neutral and general register. When using "be represented by", ensure clarity and precision in defining the nature of the representation. Consider related phrases like "be symbolized by" to fine-tune your message. "Be represented by" has a very high usage in modern english according to Ludwig's analysis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be symbolized by

Replaces "represented" with "symbolized", focusing on symbolic representation.

be embodied by

Emphasizes the physical or tangible manifestation of representation.

be characterized by

Shifts focus to representation through key characteristics or traits.

be exemplified by

Highlights representation through a prime example or instance.

be deputized by

Suggests a formal or official form of representation.

be substituted by

Focuses on acting as an alternative, a stand-in

be acting on behalf of

Indicates representation through delegated authority or agency.

be stood for by

Uses a more informal phrasing indicating that something serves as the symbol.

be an agent of

More directly points to acting to achieve a goal for somebody

be mirrored by

Describes reflection of an image or likeness.

FAQs

What does "be represented by" mean?

The phrase "be represented by" means that something or someone acts as a symbol, agent, or depiction of something else. For example, a lawyer may "be represented by" a client in court.

How can I use "be represented by" in a sentence?

You can use "be represented by" to indicate that something stands for something else. For instance, "In this diagram, each data point will "be represented by" a different color".

What are some alternatives to "be represented by"?

Alternatives include phrases like "be symbolized by", "be embodied by", or "be characterized by", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "be represented by" versus "represent"?

Use "be represented by" in the passive voice when the focus is on the thing being represented, rather than the actor doing the representing. For example, "The artist's feelings were best "be represented by" her abstract paintings" versus "Her abstract paintings represent the artist's feelings".