been on the list

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "been on the list" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone or something has been included in a specific list for a period of time. Example: "She has been on the list of top performers for three consecutive years."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

Only three New Zealanders have ever been on the list before and only one has ever won.

Independent

"I've been on the list for two.

The New York Times

Some have been on the list for a dozen years.

The New York Times

The organization has been on the list since 1997.

The New York Times

Most have been on the list for decades.

The New York Times

Iran has been on the list since 1984.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

What was on the list?

The New Yorker

Joe was on the list.

The New York Times

Who's on the list?

The New York Times - Books

You're on the list.

The New York Times

What's on the list?

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "been on the list", ensure the type of list is clear from the context. For example, specify if it's a 'best-seller list', a 'waiting list', or a 'priority list' to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "been on the list" without providing sufficient context. If the type of list is not immediately obvious, specify it. Vague references can confuse the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "been on the list" functions as a predicate within a sentence, indicating that a subject has been included in a particular list for some duration. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "been on the list" is a grammatically correct and common phrase used to describe the inclusion of someone or something on a particular list, often over a period. Ludwig AI identifies it as usable in written English. Its usage spans across various contexts, including news reporting, academic writing, and business communications. While generally neutral in tone, it's important to provide sufficient context to specify the type of list being referenced. Related phrases include alternatives that offer slight variations in emphasis or formality. The most common error is a lack of context, making the reference too vague.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

listed in the inventory

This alternative implies a formal record of items or entities, suitable for contexts involving tracking or accounting.

included in the catalog

This alternative focuses on inclusion within a structured compilation, shifting the emphasis from a general list to a specific catalog.

enrolled in the register

This is frequently used in the context of formal registration or enrollment in a program or institution.

registered on the roster

This suggests official enrollment or recording, typically used in contexts like sports teams or organizational memberships.

part of the directory

This implies inclusion in an organized collection of information, often related to people or organizations.

featured in the lineup

This suggests a more prominent or highlighted inclusion, common in contexts like events or product selections, and is slightly less general.

recorded in the log

This suggests that something has been officially noted or tracked over time.

logged on the schedule

Implies inclusion and recording on a structured timeline or plan.

cataloged in the archive

This alternative suggests being systematically stored and indexed for future reference, often in historical or research contexts.

present on the manifest

This is more formal and often used in logistical or official contexts, such as shipping or transportation manifests.

FAQs

How can I use "been on the list" in a sentence?

You can use "been on the list" to indicate inclusion in a specific list over a period. For example, "That book has been on the best-seller list for several weeks" or "She has been on the waiting list for a kidney transplant for two years".

What are some alternatives to "been on the list"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "included in the list", "featured on the list", or "part of the directory".

Is it correct to say "was on the list" instead of "has been on the list"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but they convey slightly different meanings. "Was on the list" implies a past state, while "has been on the list" suggests a state that started in the past and may continue to the present. Choose the phrase that best fits the intended meaning.

What does it mean when someone says a country has "been on the list" of state sponsors of terrorism?

When a country is "been on the list" of state sponsors of terrorism, it means that the country has been officially designated by a government (typically the US) as providing support for acts of international terrorism. This designation often carries significant economic and political consequences.