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Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
be the active form
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "be the active form" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing grammatical structures, particularly in the context of verb forms or voice in sentences. Example: "In this sentence, the verb should be the active form to convey a stronger message."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
Alternative expressions(3)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
20 human-written examples
Several studies reported the tendency of CK2α2β2 but not CK2α'2β2 to form aggregates suggesting that aggregation could be a mean to regulate CK2 activity, whereby the protomer would be the active form and the oligomer would be inactive [ 28, 29].
Science
The initial structural reorganization in MPA is observed as the formation of annealing twins in the cubic form of the anhydrous polyoxometalate – this twinned structure is believed to be the active form of the catalyst.
Science
While 20HE is thought to be the active form of the hormone, αE appears before 20HE during adult development and may have activity during this period [54].
Science
Since EcoMfd was found only in monomeric form, the monomer of MtbMfd could be the active form considering the similar domainal architecture.
Science
The side chain of Lys98 was in the deprotonated form as deemed to be the active form.
Science
cOC has higher affinity for hydroxyapatite and is thought to be the active form in the bone (5).
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
40 human-written examples
It is converted in vivo to various derivatives, including the positively charged colistin base, which is the active form with antibacterial activity.
Science
Most laboratories measure total cortisol, yet 90% of cortisol is protein bound and free cortisol is the active form responsible for biological activity.
Science
The protein showed a very low proteolytic activity (6%), suggesting that the protein dimer is the active form of the enzyme.
Science
Dimeric G6PD is the active form, but its monomeric form has little or no catalytic activity.
Science
Due to its NADH oxidase activity, this catalase modifies the antibiotic isoniazid, and the modified antibiotic is the active form that blocks mycolic acid biosynthesis.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When discussing enzymes or proteins, ensure you clearly define what triggers the transition to the "active form". This provides context and enhances understanding.
Common error
Avoid assuming that a form's mere existence implies activity. Always provide evidence or mechanisms that confirm the "active form" is indeed performing its function.
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "be the active form" functions as a descriptive predicate, specifying which particular structural arrangement or state of a substance exhibits the desired functional properties. This is supported by Ludwig's examples where it often describes proteins, enzymes, or hormones in their functional configuration.
Frequent in
Science
100%
Less common in
News & Media
0%
Formal & Business
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Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "be the active form" is a common descriptor, predominantly used in scientific literature to denote the functional configuration of a substance, such as a protein or enzyme. As indicated by Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used in scientific contexts to pinpoint the state responsible for specific biological activities. When writing, ensure you provide sufficient context to clarify the factors that trigger the transition to this active state. Be cautious not to assume activity without confirming evidence. While alternatives like "exist in its active state" exist, the original phrase remains a precise and widely accepted choice in academic and scientific discourse.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
be the operational state
Highlights the condition of being in an active operational mode.
exist in its active state
Changes the structure to emphasize the state of being active rather than the form.
act as the functional variant
Emphasizes the functional aspect using "variant" instead of "form".
function in the active configuration
Replaces "form" with "configuration" focusing on the structural arrangement required for activity.
work as the effective structure
Focuses on the effectiveness of the structure in performing its function.
be the operative arrangement
Swaps "form" with "arrangement" to describe the operational setup.
serve as the operative modality
Uses "operative modality" to highlight the functional method or manner of operation.
constitute the performing version
Highlights the version that is actively performing or executing a function.
be the functional embodiment
Emphasizes that the active form is the physical representation of a function.
represent the working figure
Uses "working figure" to denote the active and operational representation.
FAQs
How can I use "be the active form" in a sentence?
You can use "be the active form" to describe the functional state of a molecule, enzyme, or compound. For example, "The phosphorylated protein is the active form that initiates the signaling cascade."
What does "active form" mean in a scientific context?
In science, the "active form" refers to the specific configuration or state of a substance (like a protein or drug) that allows it to perform its biological function.
What are some alternatives to saying "be the active form"?
Alternatives include "exist in its active state", "function as the operative modality", or "act as the functional variant". Consider the specific context when choosing an alternative.
Is it always clear which form of a substance is "be the active form"?
No, identifying the "be the active form" often requires research to understand the mechanisms and pathways through which the substance exerts its effects. It's not always immediately obvious.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested