being controlled by

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "being controlled by" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone or something exerts influence or authority over another person or entity. Example: "The project was ultimately being controlled by the senior management team, which limited the creativity of the staff."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"They are just being controlled by men".

The Guardian

They allow the viewer to own the TV schedule instead of being controlled by it.

The New York Times - Arts

We've gone from being ruled by Barclay's bank to being controlled by Berkeley homes".

The Guardian

Harris said: "I am for staying in Europe but not being controlled by Europe.

The Guardian

Younger readers, Murdoch said, "want control over their media, instead of being controlled by it".

The New Yorker

"Even if you don't think your boss is an app, you're being controlled by the app.

The Guardian - Tech

It's in control of the things it should be being controlled by".

The Guardian

"They don't want to get rid of Saddam at the cost of being controlled by Americans".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Capital was controlled by women.

The New Yorker

He is controlled by others.

The New Yorker

Both ministries are controlled by the SNS.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "being controlled by", ensure the subject and controller are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of "The project is being controlled", specify "The project is being controlled by the management team."

Common error

Avoid using "being controlled by" in excessively passive constructions where the actor is unclear. This can weaken the sentence and obscure responsibility. Reframe to active voice when possible for greater clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "being controlled by" functions as a passive verb phrase, indicating that the subject is receiving the action of control from an external agent. Ludwig examples show it describing entities ranging from organizations to abstract concepts under external influence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "being controlled by" is a versatile verb phrase indicating external influence or domination. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used. While suitable for neutral and formal contexts, ensure clarity by specifying the controller and avoiding excessive passive voice. Consider alternatives like "under the control of" or "influenced by" based on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Under the control of

Direct synonym emphasizing a state of subjugation.

Subject to the authority of

Highlights the legitimate power exerting control.

Governed by

Focuses on the act of ruling or directing.

Ruled by

Similar to governed, but can imply a more dictatorial control.

Dominated by

Implies a forceful and overwhelming influence.

Directed by

Emphasizes guidance and instruction.

Managed by

Focuses on the administrative aspect of control.

Overseen by

Highlights supervision and monitoring.

Dictated by

Focuses on the imposition of control through commands or rules.

Influenced by

Suggests a more subtle and indirect form of control.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "being controlled by" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives such as "subject to the authority of" or "under the control of". These options often suit academic or professional contexts better than "being controlled by".

What's the difference between "influenced by" and "being controlled by"?

"Influenced by" suggests a subtle or indirect effect, whereas "being controlled by" implies a more direct and forceful level of authority or domination.

Is it better to use active or passive voice with "being controlled by"?

While grammatically correct, using the active voice is often clearer and more direct. For example, instead of "The decision is being controlled by the committee", try "The committee controls the decision".

What are some situations where "being controlled by" might be inappropriate?

In situations where a softer, more collaborative relationship is implied, "being controlled by" may be too harsh. Consider using "guided by" or "supported by" to convey a less authoritarian dynamic.