being spirited

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "being spirited" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is lively, energetic, or full of enthusiasm. Example: "Despite the challenges they faced, the team remained being spirited and motivated throughout the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

"Credit card numbers are being spirited away.

The New York Times

When you say trafficking they picture someone being spirited across the Canadian or Mexican border".

The New York Times

The group says that its recommendation has prevented some women from being spirited overseas.

The Guardian

Tens of thousands of tonnes of oil is being spirited away every week.

The Guardian

They're not being spirited away and held in the middle of forests, though I suspect some might be.

Independent

People in Brooklyn talk of the eagles' being spirited across the East River by bureaucratic plunderers of Brooklyn's history.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

"It was spirited.

The New York Times - Sports

The talk was spirited.

The New York Times - Magazine

Still, the performances were spirited and spontaneous.

The New York Times - Arts

Perhaps more accurate would be "spirited".

The Economist

"We want to be spirited and positive.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To emphasize secrecy or stealth in transportation, consider "being spirited away" instead of just "being spirited".

Common error

Avoid using "being spirited" when you mean to convey stubbornness or resistance. "Spirited" emphasizes energy and enthusiasm, while stubbornness implies inflexibility. Use phrases like "being resolute" or "being firm" instead.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "being spirited" is as a present participle phrase, often functioning as part of a continuous verb tense or as an adjective modifying a noun. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use in describing a state or action.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Encyclopedias

15%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Science

4%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "being spirited" is a versatile phrase primarily used to describe liveliness, enthusiasm, or energetic activity. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage, especially in news and media contexts. The phrase can also imply quick and secretive movement. While "being spirited" generally maintains a neutral register, it's essential to differentiate its meaning from similar terms like "being stubborn". Consider using alternative phrases like "being lively" or "being energetic" depending on the intended nuance. Remember the context to best apply its meaning, and use Ludwig's advice to improve your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

being spirited away

Indicates being secretly and rapidly taken somewhere, typically against one's will or without notice.

being lively

Focuses on the quality of being full of life and energy, a general synonym for spirited.

being energetic

Emphasizes the active and vigorous nature, highlighting the dynamic aspect of spirited.

being vivacious

Suggests a lively and animated quality, often used to describe someone's personality.

being animated

Highlights the quality of being full of enthusiasm and excitement.

being spirited abroad

Specifically refers to being taken to another country, adding a geographical dimension not always present in "being spirited".

being whisked away

Focuses on the act of being quickly and secretly transported, differing from the general sense of spirited.

being rushed off

Conveys a sense of urgency and quick departure, similar to the rapid movement implied in spirited.

being escorted swiftly

Emphasizes a guided and rapid movement, different from the more forceful or secret nature of spirited.

being smuggled

Focuses specifically on illegal transportation, a subset of the broader meaning of being spirited.

FAQs

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

"Being spirited" describes a state of liveliness or enthusiasm. For example, "The debate was "spirited", with participants passionately defending their positions" or "Despite the challenges, the team remained "spirited" and determined".

What does "being spirited away" mean?

"Being spirited away" implies being quickly and secretly taken somewhere, often against one's will. It suggests a clandestine or forced removal. See also: "being whisked away", "being rushed off".

What are some alternatives to "being spirited"?

Depending on the context, alternatives include "being lively", "being energetic", or "being vivacious" when describing someone full of life. If referring to being moved quickly and secretly, consider "being spirited away".

Is "being spirited" the same as "being lively"?

While similar, "being lively" generally refers to being full of life and activity. "Being spirited" carries a stronger connotation of enthusiasm and determination, often implying a proactive or fervent approach. For instance, "a lively party" versus "a spirited debate".