being jammed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "being jammed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where something is stuck or obstructed, often in the context of machinery or systems. Example: "The printer is being jammed with paper, causing a delay in printing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

is that our broadcasts are being jammed.

The New Yorker

His breechlock was grooved to prevent the action's being jammed with powder.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Denver hopes to link tractor-trailers wirelessly to prevent poorer areas from being jammed with idling trucks.

The Washington Post

The military are keen on this because it would no longer have to worry about radio signals being jammed.

The Guardian

That sense of confinement could actually have been a plus, if the fashion matched that sense of being jammed in at a punk club.

The New Yorker

My back hurt, and a lot of it had to do with traveling and being jammed into tight spaces for long periods of time.

The New York Times

Out of the water, his legs stiff from being jammed against the footrests, carrying the heavy kayak on his shoulder, he felt vulnerable.

The New Yorker

In addition to broadcasts over Afghanistan from converted C130 transport planes the frequencies used by Kandahar for its 'Radio Shariat' are being jammed.

The Guardian

It was packed with art materials: pencil stubs made usable by being jammed into syringes; piles of children's paints and crayons; broken elastic bands mended with tape.

The Guardian - Books

Instead of being jammed with weary cancer patients and attendants, this tiny, colonial-era building is deserted; a silent and cold place.

The Guardian

"But to tell them that I popped up in foul territory after being jammed by Mickey Lolich, it's not nearly as memorable".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical objects, ensure that the context clearly indicates what is causing the obstruction or blockage that results in something "being jammed". For example, specify the material causing the jam, or the mechanism that is failing.

Common error

Avoid using "being jammed" in highly abstract or metaphorical contexts where clearer and more precise vocabulary exists. While understandable, it can sometimes sound awkward or imprecise.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "being jammed" typically functions as part of a passive verb construction, indicating that something is undergoing the action of being blocked or obstructed. As shown by Ludwig, it is used in numerous contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

25%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Academia

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "being jammed" functions as a passive verb phrase denoting a state of obstruction or blockage. As Ludwig AI highlights, the phrase is grammatically sound, frequently used, and applicable across diverse contexts, predominantly within news, media, and scientific domains. While generally neutral in register, it's advisable to avoid overuse in highly abstract scenarios. Alternative phrases like "getting stuck" or "being obstructed" can offer subtle variations in meaning. Its prevalence and versatility make it a valuable addition to one's linguistic toolkit.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

getting stuck

Implies a state of being unable to move or progress, similar to a physical obstruction.

being obstructed

Focuses on the act of something blocking or hindering progress.

being blocked

Similar to obstructed, but can also apply to more abstract concepts like communication or information.

being impeded

Emphasizes the slowing down or hindering of something.

being forced

Highlights the element of compulsion or pressure being exerted.

being pressured

Similar to forced, but emphasizes the psychological or emotional impact.

being crammed

Implies a state of being packed tightly into a limited space.

being stuffed

Similar to crammed, but often suggests an overfilling or excessive amount.

being overwhelmed

Focuses on the feeling of being unable to cope with a large amount of something.

being inundated

Suggests a state of being flooded or overwhelmed by something, often information or requests.

FAQs

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

You can use "being jammed" to describe something that is stuck or obstructed. For example, "The printer is "being jammed" with paper", or "Radio signals were "being jammed" by the enemy".

What can I say instead of "being jammed"?

Alternatives include "getting stuck", "being obstructed", or "being blocked", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "is jammed" instead of "being jammed"?

Yes, "is jammed" is a valid alternative, particularly when describing a state rather than an ongoing process. However, "being jammed" emphasizes the action or process of becoming jammed.

What's the difference between "being jammed" and "being stuck"?

"Being jammed" often implies an active force or obstruction causing the blockage, while "being stuck" is a more general term for being unable to move. For instance, a printer is "being jammed" by paper, whereas a car might be "being stuck" in the mud.