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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
be thoroughly read
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "be thoroughly read" is not correct in standard written English.
It seems to be an attempt to convey that something should be read carefully or completely, but the construction is awkward. Example: "The instructions should be thoroughly read before starting the project."
⚠ May contain grammatical issues
Science
News & Media
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
60 human-written examples
This selection of Myles's Irish Times columns contains many brilliant reflections on literature, but none finer than his invention of the Book-Handling service, which allows wealthy philistines to own a library of books which appear to have been thoroughly read.
News & Media
The selected studies were thoroughly read.
Science
First, interviews and transcripts were thoroughly read.
The full texts of highly relevant articles were thoroughly read and analyzed by the two reviewers.
First, the interviews were thoroughly read several times to obtain a sense of the whole and identify the content area.
Science
Materials obtained included participant workbooks and trainer notes, all of which were thoroughly read, with relevant helping statements extracted.
Science
Initially, the transcripts were thoroughly read by N.R. to become familiarised with the ideas and attitudes expressed.
Science
Abstracts of selected studies were thoroughly read in order to determine whether they were potentially eligible for the inclusion in this review.
All records were thoroughly read by the investigators and an audit was performed in each case to validate the immediate prehospital outcome determined by the treating physician.
Science
Once all the transcripts had been thoroughly read, principles of constant comparative method were used to develop and refine the themes further [ 33].
Science
The text file was thoroughly read to develop codes and themes in line with the questionnaire topics (computer knowledge, experiences, and attitudes towards computer applications).
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Instead of using the phrase "be thoroughly read", opt for stronger, more direct verbs such as "examine", "scrutinize", or "review" to convey the intended meaning of careful and complete reading. For instance, "The document should be carefully examined".
Common error
Avoid using passive constructions like "be thoroughly read" as they can sound unnatural and less impactful. Rephrasing the sentence in the active voice often results in a clearer and more concise statement, like "Thoroughly read the instructions".
Source & Trust
77%
Authority and reliability
1.8/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "be thoroughly read" functions as a passive construction intended to emphasize that something should receive careful and complete attention. However, as Ludwig AI indicates, this phrasing is grammatically incorrect and awkward.
Frequent in
Science
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News & Media
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Formal & Business
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Less common in
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News & Media
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Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "be thoroughly read" is considered grammatically incorrect in standard written English. Ludwig AI highlights its awkward construction. While the intention is to emphasize careful and complete reading, it is best to avoid this phrase. Instead, opt for alternatives like ""read carefully"", ""examine thoroughly"", or rephrase the sentence in the active voice. Using clearer and more direct language will improve the effectiveness and professionalism of your writing. Although the search results provide examples of its use, these should be seen as instances to avoid rather than emulate.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
read carefully
Emphasizes the attention and detail required when reading.
read closely
Suggests a focus on the nuances and subtleties of the text.
examine thoroughly
Shifts the focus to a detailed inspection, suitable when analyzing documents.
study carefully
Implies a more in-depth and analytical approach to reading.
scrutinize closely
Highlights a critical and detailed examination of the text.
understand completely
Focuses on the comprehension aspect of reading.
review thoroughly
Suggests a comprehensive overview and assessment of the material.
analyze in detail
Emphasizes the detailed analysis performed while reading.
go through carefully
Suggests a deliberate and attentive reading process.
peruse meticulously
Implies a very careful and detailed reading, possibly with a specific purpose.
FAQs
What are some alternatives to "be thoroughly read"?
Alternatives include "read carefully", "examine thoroughly", or "review closely". The best choice depends on the context and the specific nuance you want to convey.
Is "be thoroughly read" grammatically correct?
While the individual words are valid, the phrase "be thoroughly read" is not a standard or recommended construction in English. It's better to use more direct and active phrasing.
How can I make my writing sound more natural when I want to emphasize careful reading?
Use active voice constructions like "Thoroughly read the document" or "Carefully examine the instructions". These phrases are more direct and easier to understand.
Which is better, "be thoroughly read" or "read thoroughly"?
"Read thoroughly" is better. The phrase "be thoroughly read" sounds awkward. Using "read thoroughly" in active voice is more natural, like "You should read the instructions thoroughly".
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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
77%
Authority and reliability
1.8/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested