being pinned down

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "being pinned down" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation where someone is unable to move or act freely due to external forces or factors. Example: The soldiers were being constantly bombarded by enemy fire, making it difficult for them to advance as they were being pinned down.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He wasn't at all opposed to being pinned down, being pinned down until his hair had gone white, until he was dead.

The New Yorker

Mr. Foster, a former jingle composer, evades being pinned down to a style.

The New York Times - Arts

The next thing Parrish knew, he was being pinned down by defenseman Andreas Lilja.

The New York Times - Sports

Secretly filmed footage appeared to show residents being pinned down, slapped, doused in water and taunted.

The Guardian

The video appeared to show vulnerable residents being pinned down, slapped, doused in water and taunted.

The Guardian

Marten's work resists being pinned down and that is a good thing, said Farquharson.

The Guardian - Arts

Mr Balls may be prepared to do that, without being pinned down to detailed figures on spending.

Independent

His latest role, in "Hyde Park on Hudson," feels true to his resistance to being pinned down in any way.

The New York Times

A brawl broke out that ended with Mr. Connolly being pinned down by men in the crowd.

The New York Times

Sterling was shot while being pinned down by officers during a struggle in which a pistol remained in his pocket.

The Guardian

The covert video appeared to show vulnerable residents being pinned down, slapped, doused in water and taunted.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "being pinned down" in military contexts, ensure the surrounding text clearly indicates whether it refers to physical suppression by enemy fire or a strategic maneuver.

Common error

Avoid using "being pinned down" metaphorically if the context doesn't clearly establish a sense of constraint or oppression. Overuse can dilute its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "being pinned down" functions as a passive participle phrase, often acting as an adjective modifying a noun or pronoun. As confirmed by Ludwig, it describes a state of constraint or restriction. It can also function as part of a continuous verb tense, indicating an ongoing action of restraining.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "being pinned down" is a versatile expression that describes a state of constraint, whether physical or metaphorical. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used. Its neutral register allows it to appear in diverse contexts, from news reports to personal narratives. While there are similar phrases, such as "being restrained" or "being suppressed", each carries a slightly different nuance. When using "being pinned down", clarity is key: ensure the context makes it clear whether you're referring to a literal or figurative situation. The sources cited by Ludwig AI further demonstrate the breadth and depth of its applications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

being restrained

Focuses on the act of preventing movement or action.

being immobilized

Emphasizes the inability to move or function.

being held captive

Emphasizes the lack of freedom and forced restraint.

being trapped

Implies a confined and inescapable situation.

being cornered

Suggests a situation where escape is difficult or impossible.

being suppressed

Highlights the forceful prevention of expression or activity.

being subjugated

Highlights the act of bringing someone under control.

being dominated

Focuses on the exercise of power or control over someone.

being overwhelmed

Suggests being overpowered by a large force or amount.

being under siege

Implies being surrounded and attacked.

FAQs

How can I use "being pinned down" in a sentence?

You can use "being pinned down" to describe a situation where someone is physically restrained, such as "The suspect was "being pinned down" by police". It can also be used metaphorically to describe feeling trapped or restricted.

What can I say instead of "being pinned down"?

You can use alternatives like "being restrained", "being held captive", or "being suppressed" depending on the context.

Is "being pinned down" formal or informal?

"Being pinned down" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, the surrounding language and specific situation will determine the overall tone.

What's the difference between "being pinned down" and "being cornered"?

"Being pinned down" implies a physical or metaphorical restraint preventing movement or action. "Being cornered" suggests being trapped in a location with limited or no escape routes. While there may be some overlap, the focus differs.