be under suspicion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be under suspicion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that someone is being regarded with doubt or distrust regarding their actions or intentions. Example: "After the incident, he began to be under suspicion for his involvement in the crime."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

"It is not worth it to be under suspicion".

The New York Times - Health

The three Super Bowl championships are, and forever will be, under suspicion.

The New York Times

Analysts said pro-Syrian elements would immediately be under suspicion of carrying out the assassination.

The Guardian

That entire generation will be under suspicion for a very long time.

The New York Times - Sports

He had no record of terrorist activities and so he would not be under suspicion by Western intelligence agencies.

The New York Times

Otherwise up to 12 England players from Redknapp's time in charge of Spurs would be under suspicion.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

We were under suspicion.

The Economist

Muslim militants, however, are under suspicion.

The New York Times

Anyone with Gulenist sympathies was under suspicion.

The Guardian - Sport

No students in particular were under suspicion; all of them were under general suspicion.

The New Yorker

At least 19 UK-based front companies are under suspicion.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be under suspicion", clearly state the reason or context for the suspicion to avoid ambiguity. For instance, specify what the person is suspected of and by whom.

Common error

Avoid using "be under suspicion" excessively in passive constructions, which can make your writing sound weak. Instead, consider active voice constructions that highlight who is doing the suspecting, resulting in stronger and more direct sentences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be under suspicion" functions as a predicate adjective, describing a state of being where an individual or entity is regarded with doubt or distrust. Examples from Ludwig show its use in various contexts, such as criminal investigations and professional sports.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

96%

Science

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be under suspicion" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a state of doubt or distrust towards someone, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It is most frequently used in news and media contexts, as well as science contexts, to inform the audience about an individual or entity being viewed with skepticism due to potential wrongdoing. While synonyms such as "be suspected of" or "be investigated for" exist, "be under suspicion" carries a slightly more general connotation. When using this phrase, ensure the context and reasons for the suspicion are clear to avoid ambiguity and consider using active voice constructions to strengthen your writing. High-quality sources like The New York Times and The Guardian frequently employ this phrase, underscoring its reliability and acceptance in formal and neutral registers.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be suspected of

This alternative directly replaces "under suspicion" with a more concise verb phrase, focusing on the act of suspecting.

be a suspect in

This phrase shifts the focus slightly to identify the individual as a suspect in a particular case or situation.

face allegations of

This alternative highlights the presence of formal accusations, adding a layer of severity.

be investigated for

This phrase emphasizes the ongoing process of inquiry, suggesting a more formal scrutiny.

have questions raised about

This alternative softens the implication of guilt, focusing on the raising of doubts or uncertainties.

be looked at with mistrust

This phrase highlights the feeling of distrust, rather than the formal process of suspicion.

be regarded with skepticism

This alternative suggests a questioning attitude, implying doubt about someone's claims or actions.

have a cloud over one's head

This idiom conveys a sense of lingering doubt or negativity surrounding someone.

be in the frame for

This colloquial phrase suggests someone is being considered a possible culprit.

attract scrutiny

This phrase emphasizes the act of drawing attention and examination, often due to questionable behavior.

FAQs

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

You can use "be under suspicion" to indicate that someone is being suspected of something. For example, "After the incident, he began to be under suspicion for his involvement in the crime."

What's the difference between "be under suspicion" and "be suspected of"?

"Be under suspicion" and "be suspected of" are very similar, but "be under suspicion" often implies a more general or informal sense of doubt, while "be suspected of" can refer to a specific accusation.

Are there synonyms for "be under suspicion"?

Yes, some synonyms include "be investigated for", "be a suspect in", or "face allegations of", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "be under suspicion" in formal writing?

Yes, "be under suspicion" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly in news reports, legal documents, and academic papers where a neutral and objective tone is required.