becomes that of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "becomes that of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a transformation or change in state, often relating to identity or role. Example: "As the project evolved, its focus becomes that of community engagement and sustainability."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

In her version, the wedding becomes that of Avigail, who is an entirely fictitious character.

The New York Times - Books

The child's life, reciprocally, becomes that of a model — and more.

The New York Times - Magazine

The personal experience of the filmmaker becomes that of the viewer; the filmmaker stands not between the viewer and the subject but for the viewer, whose own virtual space becomes that of the action.

The New Yorker

The blazers are gone and the uniform becomes that of a tracksuit, as pupils march in neat, military lines to the sports field.

Independent

And when it is in motion, the sound of shifting gears and engine braking becomes that of a storm, never quite formed, its forming ceaseless, thunder dry, impotent.

The New York Times

In the famous photograph "Violon d'Ingres," a woman's body becomes that of a musical instrument -- literally an object, and metaphorically a tool for artistic expression.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

His status became that of a reservist; now, he is ordered back into the Army.

The New York Times - Books

Her role in his government became that of chief executive and roving diplomat.

Wikipedia

Corday realizes his only home has become that of the starship.

Wikipedia

And so the role of the publicist became that of 24-hour damage control, and rehab became a public apology.

Vice

Eventually his role at Marvel became that of chairman emeritus.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "becomes that of" to clearly indicate a transformation or shift in identity, role, or function. It works best when emphasizing the resulting state after a change.

Common error

Avoid using "becomes that of" for simple transformations that can be expressed more directly. For instance, instead of "The liquid becomes that of water", use "The liquid becomes water".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "becomes that of" functions as a linking verb phrase that connects a subject to a noun phrase complement, indicating a transformation or change in state. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. Ludwig's examples show it often signifies a shift in role, identity, or characteristic.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "becomes that of" is a versatile expression used to indicate a transformation or shift in identity, role, or function. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts. It is particularly effective when emphasizing the resulting state after a change. While alternatives like "transforms into" or "turns into" exist, "becomes that of" offers a nuanced way to describe the transition. The most authoritative sources, such as The New York Times and Encyclopedia Britannica, frequently employ this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

transforms into

Indicates a complete change in form or appearance, emphasizing the process of transformation.

turns into

Suggests a change in condition or character, highlighting the resulting state.

evolves into

Implies a gradual development or progression into a new form or state.

is converted to

Indicates a change from one form or function to another, often through a specific process.

is altered to

Suggests a modification or adjustment to a different state or condition.

changes to

A more general term indicating a shift or transition to something different.

is replaced by

Highlights the substitution of one thing for another.

morphs into

Suggests a gradual and often subtle transformation.

assumes the form of

Indicates taking on a specific shape or appearance.

takes on the role of

Emphasizes the adoption of a particular function or position.

FAQs

How can I use "becomes that of" in a sentence?

Use "becomes that of" to describe a transformation where something takes on the characteristics or role of something else. For example, "Her role in the project "becomes that of" a team leader".

What are some alternatives to "becomes that of"?

Alternatives include phrases like "transforms into", "turns into", or "evolves into" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "becomes" and "becomes that of"?

"Becomes" is a more direct way to indicate a change. "Becomes that of" is used when you want to emphasize that the subject is taking on the specific attributes or role of something else. For example, "The situation becomes critical" versus "The situation "becomes that of" a crisis".

When is it appropriate to use "becomes that of" instead of a simpler alternative?

Use "becomes that of" when you want to highlight the resulting state or role after a transformation. It's particularly useful when describing a change in identity, function, or status.