being commanded

USAGE SUMMARY

"being commanded" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are talking about someone being told to do something in a direct way. For example: "I felt insulted by being commanded to do something I had no interest in doing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

The Enterprise arrives in time to save the crew of the USS Defiant which is being commanded by Lieutenant Commander Worf.

Wikipedia

He used the example of water not having an identical meaning to H2O to propose that "being commanded by God" does not have an identical meaning to "being obligatory".

Wikipedia

Rosetta is being commanded to plunge into its target comet – why destroy it?

The Guardian

"I like the idea of being commanded, too, in the same ambivalent way, because I believe that I am.

The New York Times - Books

Right now, the Reaper is being commanded from a console with twin video screens shaped to resemble a plane's cockpit.

The Guardian

I also had the experience, about three years ago, of being commanded to do hand stands I could not make myself do at an unnamed, fashionable yoga studio.

The New York Times - Style

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

It is commanded".

The New York Times

Our eyes are commanded to open.

Independent

As if this was commanded.

The New York Times

The precinct was commanded by Capt.

The New Yorker

Instead, that army was commanded by Lieut.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider replacing "being commanded" with a more active verb phrase like "receiving orders" or "under the direction of" to make your sentence structure more dynamic.

Common error

Avoid using "being commanded" in casual conversations or informal writing. It can sound overly formal or even aggressive. Opt for softer alternatives like "being asked" or "being instructed" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "being commanded" functions as a passive verb phrase, indicating that the subject is receiving an order or instruction. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct. Examples show its use in contexts where authority and obedience are relevant.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

16%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Academia

6%

Encyclopedias

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "being commanded" is a grammatically correct and frequently used passive verb phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It's employed to express the act of receiving an order or instruction, particularly in scenarios involving authority and obedience. The phrase is most common in "news & media", "science", and "wiki" contexts. While the register leans towards neutral to formal, it's advisable to avoid its overuse in informal settings, opting for alternatives like "being asked" or "being instructed" for a less assertive tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

under someone's command

This phrase implies direct authority and control by another person.

subject to orders

This alternative suggests a hierarchical structure where obedience to instructions is expected.

under instruction

This phrase denotes a state of receiving and following specific guidance.

obliged to follow

This indicates a sense of duty or requirement to adhere to certain directives.

directed to perform

This suggests a formal instruction to carry out a specific task.

tasked with

This emphasizes the assignment of a responsibility or duty.

ordered to execute

This conveys a strong sense of authority and the expectation of immediate action.

compelled to obey

This highlights the lack of choice and the forcefulness of the command.

bound by duty

This suggests a moral or ethical obligation to follow instructions.

required to comply

This indicates a formal or legal necessity to adhere to certain rules or directives.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "being commanded" to sound less formal?

Consider alternatives like "being asked", "being instructed", or "being told" depending on the specific context. The level of formality should align with your audience and the purpose of your communication.

What is the difference between "being commanded" and "being requested"?

"Being commanded" implies a direct order that must be followed, whereas "being requested" suggests a polite invitation with the option of refusal. The choice depends on the power dynamic and the desired level of assertiveness.

Is it grammatically correct to use "being commanded" in the passive voice?

Yes, "being commanded" is a valid passive construction. It emphasizes the action of commanding being done to the subject, rather than the subject actively performing the command.

When is it appropriate to use "being commanded" in writing?

Use "being commanded" when you want to highlight that someone is under direct authority and expected to obey. This is often found in military, hierarchical, or formal settings. Also, consider the emotional implication conveyed.