being alluded to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "being alluded to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to something that is indirectly mentioned or hinted at in a conversation or text. Example: "The author skillfully weaves in themes of loss and redemption, with the latter being alluded to throughout the narrative."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Some BBC guidelines suggest that the use of a euphemism such as "effing" is potentially as offensive as pronouncing the taboo word that is being alluded to.

The Guardian

And I think there is no question that those three openings are being alluded to in the Severan arch, and being transformed into something that was new, which was the idea of the triple-arcuated bay.

Yale University

"There's a variety of people that one could infer or read between the lines as being alluded to," Mr. Allon said, while saying that the ad was not "a specific shot across the bow" at any of the potential candidates.

The New York Times

The density of the historical and political material being alluded to, and the brevity of the allusions, results in a play that often feels like self-parody, despite James MacDonald's sober, stylish production.

The New York Times

The last sentence of the fifth paragraph stated that 17-year-old Charlie had been voted off the show, when in fact it was Yanet Fuentes who was being alluded to.

The Guardian

After being alluded to in q. 22, Quodl.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

It is alluded to in amendments to the United States Constitution.

The New York Times - Arts

None of this is alluded to in Proverbs.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Some of the toxic effects have been alluded to here.

Harvard Business Review

Heartbreak is alluded to, and the drift into lovesickness.

The Guardian - Music

But as I grew up, he was alluded to.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "being alluded to" when you want to subtly reference something without explicitly stating it. This can add nuance and sophistication to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "being alluded to" excessively, as it can make your writing sound vague and indirect. In some cases, a more direct statement might be more effective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "being alluded to" functions as a passive verb phrase, indicating that a subject is indirectly referenced or hinted at, rather than explicitly stated. This construction is often used to introduce subtlety or nuance. Ludwig provides various examples where this phrase is used to convey information without being overly direct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Science

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "being alluded to" is a grammatically correct passive verb phrase used to indicate that something is indirectly referenced or hinted at. Ludwig highlights its usage across various domains, including news, academia, and science, although less common in more informal contexts. As Ludwig AI pointed out the phrase follows standard grammar rules. When writing, "being alluded to" provides a nuanced way to introduce topics without explicitly stating them, but it's essential to balance subtlety with clarity. Consider using synonyms like "being referenced" or "being suggested" depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

being referenced

Replaces 'alluded' with a more direct synonym, implying a clearer connection.

being suggested

Focuses on the hint or implication aspect, rather than a direct mention.

being hinted at

Emphasizes the subtle and indirect nature of the reference.

being implied

Highlights the unspoken but understood connection.

being indicated

Suggests a sign or signal pointing towards something.

being intimated

Implies a delicate or private manner of suggestion.

being mentioned indirectly

Explicitly states the indirectness of the reference.

being pointed towards

Uses a spatial metaphor to describe the direction of the reference.

being drawn to

Focuses on attracting attention to a certain aspect.

being touched upon

Indicates a brief or cursory mention of the topic.

FAQs

How can I use "being alluded to" in a sentence?

You can use "being alluded to" to indicate that something is mentioned indirectly or subtly. For example: "The potential consequences "were being alluded to", but never explicitly stated."

What are some alternatives to "being alluded to"?

Some alternatives to "being alluded to" include "being referenced", "being suggested", or "being hinted at". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to be direct or use "being alluded to"?

Whether to be direct or use "being alluded to" depends on your desired effect. Directness provides clarity, while "being alluded to" can create intrigue or subtly convey information without explicit mention. Choose the approach that best suits your purpose and audience.

What is the difference between "being alluded to" and "being mentioned"?

"Being mentioned" is a more general term that simply means something was brought up. "Being alluded to" implies a more indirect or suggestive reference, where the topic isn't explicitly named but is hinted at.