be searched

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be searched" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone or something is subject to a search, often in legal or security situations. Example: "Before entering the concert venue, all attendees must be searched for prohibited items."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

content may be searched simultaneously.

Columbia University

Image scans cannot be searched.

Yale University

It can be searched by keyword.

The Economist

Any combination of fields may be searched.

University of California, Berkeley

How deeply should the tree be searched?

Cornell University

This collection can be searched or browsed.

University of California, Berkeley

CLIO can be searched using Arabic script.

Columbia University

He asked that her apartment be searched.

The New York Times

Publications may be searched using the options below.

Harvard University

Our holdings can be searched through our online database, MCZbase.

Harvard University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

He seemed to be searching.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure proper consent or legal justification is in place before conducting a search to comply with privacy laws and regulations.

Common error

Avoid using "be searching" when "be searched" is required. "Be searching" implies the act of actively looking, whereas "be searched" indicates the state of being the object of a search.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be searched" functions as a passive verb, indicating that the subject is the recipient of the action of searching. This construction is commonly used to describe a situation where someone or something is subjected to a search, as confirmed by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

49%

News & Media

42%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be searched" is a versatile passive construction indicating that a subject is the recipient of a search action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used, predominantly in academic, news, and scientific contexts. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the entity being searched and the reasons behind the search. Avoid confusing it with the active form "be searching". By understanding its nuances and usage patterns, writers can effectively communicate scenarios involving scrutiny and examination.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

undergo a search

Focuses on the action of experiencing the search process.

be subject to a search

Emphasizes the obligation or likelihood of being searched.

be inspected

Implies a more formal and thorough examination.

be screened

Suggests a preliminary examination, often for security purposes.

be examined

Highlights a detailed analysis or investigation.

be investigated

Indicates a formal inquiry or probe.

be frisked

Specifically refers to a physical search of a person.

be patrolled

Focuses on monitored and controlled areas through search.

be scanned

Implies using technology to perform a search or examination.

be vetted

Indicates a background check or thorough assessment.

FAQs

How is "be searched" used in a sentence?

The phrase "be searched" is used to indicate that someone or something is the object of a search. For example, "All bags may "be searched" at the entrance".

What are some alternatives to the phrase "be searched"?

Alternatives to "be searched" include phrases like "undergo a search", "be subject to a search", or "be screened", depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "be searched" or "be searching"?

The correct phrase depends on the intended meaning. "Be searched" is passive, indicating someone or something is the recipient of the action. "Be searching" is active, meaning someone is performing the search. For example, "The police will "be searching" the area" versus "The suspect will "be searched"".

What does it mean when something "can be searched"?

When something "can "be searched"", it means that it is possible to conduct a search on that thing, whether it's a database, a person, or a location. It implies accessibility and permissibility of the search.