being bred

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "being bred" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing the process of breeding animals or plants, or metaphorically in discussions about upbringing or development. Example: "The new species of dog is being bred for its intelligence and friendly temperament."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Basically, it appears that captive-bred owls are not being released, nor are they being bred so often in captivity.

Forbes

Class segregation is being bred in the classroom.

The Guardian - Opinion

But what qualities are being bred for success?

The New York Times - Arts

Many publications advise to not graze red clover while sheep are being bred.

Cornell University

Washington's enthusiasm was catching, and soon mules were being bred by the thousand.

The New Yorker

With a high percentage of Holsteins being bred artificially, a potentially major problem has been avoided.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Peregrine falcons are being bred in nests on the top of city skyscrapers.

The Economist

It is one of the swamps within which terrorism is being bred.

The Economist

Even heucheras, commonly known as coral bells, are being bred to take sun, drought, even humidity.

The New York Times

Longhorns had almost died out as a result of being bred with plumper breeds.

The New York Times

The totoaba, however, is being bred in captivity, giving the species a path to survival.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In metaphorical contexts, consider whether "being bred" accurately conveys the intended meaning of cultivation or development, as it can sometimes carry connotations of manipulation or control.

Common error

Avoid using "being bred" in contexts where the idea is about general growth or learning; instead, opt for terms like "being nurtured" or "being developed" to avoid implying intentional manipulation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "being bred" functions as a passive verb phrase, typically used to describe a process where animals or plants are intentionally reproduced for specific traits. Ludwig AI provides numerous examples illustrating its use in contexts related to animal husbandry, agriculture, and even metaphorical scenarios.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "being bred" is a grammatically sound and frequently used passive verb phrase that describes the process of intentional reproduction for specific traits. As supported by Ludwig AI, it is commonly used in contexts relating to animal husbandry, agriculture, and genetics, appearing in reputable sources such as The New York Times and The Guardian. When using "being bred", it's crucial to consider the context and potential connotations, opting for alternative phrases like "being cultivated" or "being nurtured" in more abstract or sensitive scenarios. Keep in mind that while accurate, overuse of this phrase or its misuse in certain scenarios can lead to misinterpretation or unintended implications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

being cultivated

Focuses on careful development and nurturing, applicable to plants, animals, or even ideas, shifting the emphasis from reproduction to refinement.

being raised

Emphasizes the act of rearing and nurturing, often used in the context of animals or children, changing the focus to care and upbringing.

being propagated

Specifically refers to the reproduction of plants, often used in horticultural contexts, narrowing the scope to botanical propagation.

being generated

Suggests a process of creation or origination, applicable to various abstract or concrete entities, widening the context to include non-biological origins.

being developed

Highlights the gradual growth and maturation of something, be it an organism or a skill, altering the emphasis to the progressive improvement.

being fostered

Implies encouragement and support for growth and development, often used in the context of talent or potential, shifting the focus to active promotion.

being nurtured

Conveys a sense of care and attention given to promote healthy growth, applicable to individuals or projects, emphasizing the supportive environment.

undergoing selective breeding

Specifies the intentional process of choosing specific traits for propagation, used mainly in animal husbandry and plant breeding, adding the aspect of artificial selection.

subject to genetic selection

Indicates a process where genetic traits are favored or disfavored, often in scientific contexts, focusing on the underlying genetic mechanisms.

being cultivated selectively

Combines the ideas of cultivation and selection, indicating a deliberate process of improving traits through controlled reproduction, emphasizing intentional refinement.

FAQs

How can I use "being bred" in a sentence?

"Being bred" is used to describe the process of animals or plants being selectively reproduced. For example, "These horses are "being bred" for their speed and agility."

What are some alternatives to "being bred"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "being cultivated", "being raised", or "being developed".

Is it appropriate to use "being bred" when discussing human characteristics?

While technically possible, using "being bred" to describe human characteristics can be seen as dehumanizing. Consider using alternatives like "being nurtured" or "being raised" to convey a sense of upbringing and development.

What is the difference between "being bred" and "selective breeding"?

"Being bred" refers to the general process of reproduction, whereas "selective breeding" implies a specific intention to enhance certain traits through careful selection of parent organisms.