be sent back

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be sent back" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to something or someone being returned to a previous location or state, often in the context of shipping, communication, or feedback. Example: "If the package is damaged, it will need to be sent back to the supplier for a replacement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

How can they be sent back?

The New Yorker

Wilcox will then be sent back down.

The New York Times - Sports

Perhaps they should be sent back.

The New York Times

All have to be sent back.

The Guardian - Books

He re-enlisted, hoping to be sent back.

The New York Times

"I just know it will be sent back.

The New York Times - Food

He had to be sent back to the prison compound.

The New Yorker

I think I'm going to be sent back".

Independent

Where should they sleep, and which will be sent back?

The New Yorker

He asked to be sent back to China.

The New York Times

The first photographs will be sent back the next day.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be sent back", ensure the context clearly indicates the original location or state to which something or someone is being returned. This helps avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "be sent back" when active voice is more appropriate and direct. For example, instead of "The package will be sent back by us", use "We will send the package back."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be sent back" functions primarily as a passive verb phrase. It indicates that the subject of the sentence is receiving the action of being returned or dispatched to a previous location or state. Ludwig's examples demonstrate this in various contexts, from physical objects to people.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be sent back" is a frequently used passive verb phrase indicating that something or someone is returned to a previous location or state. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and appears across diverse contexts, including news, science, and academic writing. While primarily neutral in register, the specific context determines the overall formality. Remember to ensure the context clearly indicates the destination to avoid ambiguity, and to consider active voice alternatives for more direct communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be returned

Uses a simpler verb with a direct meaning of coming or going to a previous place.

be shipped back

Emphasizes the act of sending via a shipping service.

be deported

Specifically refers to the forced return of a person to their country of origin.

be extradited

Refers to the legal process of returning someone to face trial in another jurisdiction.

be repatriated

Highlights the act of returning someone to their native country.

be remitted

Suggests the act of sending money back.

be routed back

Implies returning along a specific path or route.

be conveyed back

Suggests the act of carrying or transporting something back.

be relegated

Highlights being demoted or assigned back to a lower position.

be restored

Highlights a returning to a former condition or place.

FAQs

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

The phrase "be sent back" indicates something is being returned to its origin. For example, "If the product is faulty, it will "be sent back" to the manufacturer."

What are some alternatives to "be sent back"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "be returned", "be shipped back", or "be deported" to convey a similar meaning.

When is it appropriate to use "be sent back" instead of "return"?

Use "be sent back" when you want to emphasize the action of sending and the passive nature of the subject. "Return" is more direct. Example: "The item needs to "be sent back"" (passive) vs. "You must return the item" (active).

What does it mean when something "will be sent back"?

It means that something will be returned to its point of origin or to a previous state. This is often used in the context of products, documents, or even people, such as when someone be deported to their home country.