being sought

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "being sought" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something or someone is being searched for or desired. Example: "The information being sought is crucial for the investigation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Suspects are being sought.

The New York Times

He is being sought.

The New York Times

Others were being sought.

The New York Times

The suspect is being sought.

The New York Times

A suspect is being sought.

The New York Times

Outside donors are being sought.

The New York Times

Eight others are being sought.

The New York Times

A successor is being sought.

The New York Times

The shooter is being sought.

The New York Times

The other two patients were being sought.

The New York Times

The suspects are still being sought.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "being sought" in formal writing, ensure the subject is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For instance, specify who or what is "being sought" and the context of the search.

Common error

While "being sought" is grammatically correct, avoid using it excessively in casual conversation. Simpler alternatives like "looked for" or "searched for" may be more appropriate in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "being sought" functions as a passive gerund phrase, indicating that the subject is the recipient of the action of seeking. This construction is commonly used to describe ongoing searches or desires, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Formal & Business

28%

Science

25%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "being sought" is a versatile and commonly used expression in English, denoting an active search or desire for someone or something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and frequently found in news, business, and academic contexts. While it can be used in various settings, it's important to consider the formality of the situation and choose simpler alternatives like "looked for" when appropriate. Common errors include overuse in casual settings. Related phrases offer nuanced ways to express similar ideas. Overall, understanding the context and nuances of "being sought" will enhance clarity and precision in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

actively searched for

Explicitly states that a search is in progress.

looked for

A simpler, more informal way of saying "being sought".

actively pursued

Emphasizes the active and ongoing effort to find or obtain something.

currently desired

Stresses the present wish or need for something.

under investigation

Focuses on the act of investigating, implying a formal inquiry is underway.

in demand

Indicates that there is a high level of need or desire for something.

subject to search

Highlights the action of searching, usually in a legal or procedural context.

required

Suggests a necessity or obligation for something to be obtained.

under consideration

Implies that something is being thought about or evaluated.

being hunted

Conveys a sense of urgency and intensity in the search.

FAQs

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

You can use "being sought" to indicate that someone or something is being actively looked for or desired. For example, "The suspect is "being sought" by the police" or "Outside donors are "being sought" to fund the project".

What are some alternatives to "being sought"?

Alternatives to "being sought" include phrases like "actively pursued", "looked for", or "under investigation", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "is being sought" or "is being strived"?

The correct phrase is "is being sought". "Being strived" is not a standard or grammatically correct phrase in English. "Sought" is the past participle of "seek", while "strived" is the past participle of "strive", which means 'to make great efforts to achieve or obtain something'.

What's the difference between "being sought" and "being requested"?

"Being sought" generally implies a search or pursuit, often when something is missing or needed. "Being requested", on the other hand, means that something is being formally asked for or petitioned. The two aren't interchangeable because of the difference in how they imply the relationship between subject and object.