be shown to be

USAGE SUMMARY

'be shown to be' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use the phrase to describe proof of something, or to demonstrate a clear connection between two things. For example: "The evidence was clear: the suspect had to be shown to be guilty of the crime."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It must be shown to be arbitrary.

Cornell University

How can West be shown to be almost likable?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Such misapplication cannot be shown to be an invidious discrimination.

Cornell University

Selective schools must be shown to be more effective than non-selective ones.

The Guardian

Everything I wrote in my statement back in June will be shown to be correct".

The Guardian - Sport

We prefer it if they can be shown to be inferior and shabby".

The Guardian - Books

Scientists not only can be wrong but can be shown to be wrong very publicly.

The New Yorker

However, the mineral can be shown to be tetragonal by methods such as optical studies.

Britannica

3) It consequently saves money by not funding programs that cannot be shown to be effective.

The Washington Post

Oparin's various novel premises can be shown to be closely related to one another.

Britannica

Or that it must be shown to be disparaging actual people, rather than groups.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be shown to be" when you want to emphasize that something has been clearly demonstrated or proven, often through evidence or analysis. It adds a layer of objectivity and verification to your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "be shown to be" in situations where a simpler verb like "is" or "seems" would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound unnecessarily formal or convoluted. For instance, instead of saying "The sky can be shown to be blue", simply state "The sky is blue".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be shown to be" functions as a passive construction, indicating that something has been demonstrated or proven through evidence or analysis. Ludwig examples illustrate its usage in various contexts, from scientific findings to legal arguments.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

28%

Academia

22%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be shown to be" serves as a robust linguistic tool for expressing that something has been clearly demonstrated or proven, carrying implications of evidence-based objectivity. Ludwig examples illustrate frequent applications within news, scientific, and academic spheres. While grammatically sound and broadly accepted, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, its formal tone may render it less suitable for informal contexts. Consider related phrases like "be proven to be" or "be demonstrated to be" for nuanced expression, but refrain from overuse to maintain writing clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be proven to be

Focuses on the conclusive evidence and verification aspect.

be demonstrated to be

Highlights the act of demonstrating or illustrating something clearly.

be established to be

Emphasizes the act of setting something firmly and proving its existence.

be found to be

Indicates a discovery or finding as a result of investigation.

be determined to be

Suggests a process of careful consideration and decision-making.

be revealed to be

Highlights the uncovering or disclosure of something previously unknown.

be understood to be

Implies a general consensus or agreement on a particular understanding.

be considered to be

Focuses on subjective evaluation or judgment.

be recognized as

Highlights acknowledgement or acceptance of quality.

be deemed to be

Suggests a formal or official judgment.

FAQs

How can I use "be shown to be" in a sentence?

Use "be shown to be" to indicate that something has been demonstrated or proven through evidence. For example, "The new drug must "be shown to be safe" and effective before it can be approved."

What are some alternatives to "be shown to be"?

Alternatives include phrases like "be proven to be", "be demonstrated to be", or "be established to be", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "be shown to be" or a more direct verb?

It depends on the context. "Be shown to be" is useful when you want to emphasize the process of demonstration or proof. In simpler contexts, a direct verb like "is" or "seems" might be more appropriate.

What is the register of "be shown to be"?

The phrase "be shown to be" tends to be more formal and is frequently used in academic, scientific, and professional writing. In informal contexts, simpler alternatives might be preferred.