be under cover

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be under cover" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that is concealed or hidden, often in a context related to secrecy or protection. Example: "The spy had to be under cover to gather information without being detected."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

While a wish to be under cover has boosted sales from the merchandise tent and the wish to be warm means more than 100,000 teas and coffees will have been purchased by this evening, beer sales are down on 10 years ago.

The Guardian - Sport

Two battalions planned a daylight attack, in the belief that the unusual time would surprise the German defenders, who would be under cover sheltering from the regular bombardments being fired at that time each day.

Wikipedia

Never snipe from the open always be under cover.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Most of these are under cover in historic listed buildings.

The Guardian

"I'd use this in an area outdoors that's under cover".

The New York Times

The field is natural grass, and 85percentt of seating is under cover.

The Washington Post

This week's theme is "Under Cover," focusing on weaving using colored paper.

The New York Times - Arts

It's a racial thing but it's under cover, because they don't want to get reported to security.

The New York Times - Magazine

In reality, Republicans are, under cover of fake oversight, actively working to interfere in the investigation, on Trump's behalf.

The Washington Post

The reason why early policemen were given their silly tall hats was so that no one would suspect them of being "under cover".

Independent

"He is talking about things that are under cover," said Mr. Kiehl, adding that he owns several of Mr. Powhida's pieces.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be under cover" when you want to convey that someone or something is concealed, protected, or operating secretly.

Common error

Avoid using "be under cover" and "undercover" interchangeably. "Undercover" typically refers to someone working in disguise for law enforcement or espionage, while "be under cover" has a broader meaning of being concealed or protected.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be under cover" functions as a predicate adjective, describing the state of a subject being concealed or protected. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound. Examples show its use in contexts ranging from physical protection to secrecy.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Science

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be under cover" is a grammatically sound expression used to describe a state of concealment, protection, or secrecy. Ludwig AI analysis indicates its usage is more frequent in news and media, and Wiki contexts. While the phrase is relatively straightforward, it's important to distinguish it from the more specific term "undercover", which refers to disguised identity. The phrase can be replaced by alternatives such as "be concealed" or "be hidden" depending on the intended nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be undercover

Implies a secret or disguised identity.

be concealed

Focuses on the act of hiding something, emphasizing the state of not being visible.

be hidden

Similar to 'be concealed', but can also imply being difficult to find.

be sheltered

Implies protection from harm or the elements, rather than just being out of sight.

be out of sight

Indicates simply not being visible.

be cloaked

Suggests a deliberate attempt to obscure or disguise something.

be protected

Highlights the aspect of being shielded or safeguarded.

operate discreetly

Emphasizes the act of performing an action without attracting attention.

be in hiding

Suggests a state of actively avoiding detection, often due to danger.

fly under the radar

An idiomatic expression for avoiding notice or attention.

FAQs

How can I use "be under cover" in a sentence?

You can use "be under cover" to describe something hidden or someone operating secretly. For example, "The spies had to be under cover to gather information" or "The equipment needs to be under cover to protect it from the rain".

What's a more formal way to say "be under cover"?

More formal alternatives include "be concealed" or "be hidden". These options are suitable for professional or academic writing.

Is there a difference between "be under cover" and "be undercover"?

Yes, "be under cover" generally means to be hidden or protected, while "be undercover" specifically refers to someone disguising their identity, often for law enforcement or espionage purposes.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "be under cover"?

It's appropriate to use "be under cover" when describing a state of concealment, protection from elements, or secrecy. Consider the context to ensure it accurately conveys your intended meaning.