bound by

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bound by" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to indicate that someone is constrained or restricted by the terms of an agreement or rule. For example, "The tenant was bound by the terms of the lease agreement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We're bound by it.

The New Yorker

She wasn't bound by rules".

The New York Times - Arts

Private sales are bound by confidentiality agreements.

The New Yorker

And we are bound by them.

The New York Times - Sports

We are not bound by our nature.

The New York Times

"Because we are bound by duty.

The New York Times - Books

"I'm bound by a confidentiality agreement".

The New York Times - Magazine

We are bound by the evidence".

The New Yorker

Canada is not bound by those rules.

The New York Times

Courts are not bound by previous decisions.

Encyclopedia Britannica

They are bound by certain treaties.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "bound by", ensure that the entity imposing the constraint is clearly identified. For example, "The company is bound by the regulations set forth by the EPA."

Common error

Avoid using incorrect prepositions after "bound". "Bound to" usually refers to a future event, while "bound by" signifies an existing obligation or constraint.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bound by" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase modifying a noun or pronoun. It indicates a state of being obligated, constrained, or restricted by something, such as rules, agreements, or laws. Ludwig AI confirms its proper grammatical use.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "bound by" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to denote obligation or restriction under a rule, law, agreement, or principle. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is grammatically sound and well-supported by numerous examples from reliable sources. It's most frequently encountered in news and formal business contexts, maintaining a neutral tone. To use "bound by" effectively, ensure clarity in identifying the entity imposing the constraint and avoid confusing it with "bound to", which implies future certainty. Alternatives such as "obligated by" or "constrained by" can add nuance to your writing. Remember to use the phrase "bound by" when you want to express a clear, legal, or moral obligation. The phrase's high frequency and correct usage make it a valuable addition to your writing toolkit.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

obligated by

This phrase replaces "bound" with "obligated", emphasizing a sense of duty or requirement.

constrained by

This alternative emphasizes the restrictive aspect of being "bound", focusing on limitations.

restricted by

Similar to "constrained by", this highlights limitations or restrictions imposed by something.

subject to

This indicates that someone or something is under the authority or influence of something else.

limited by

Indicates that something is restricted in scope, amount or extent.

governed by

This suggests a rule or principle that dictates actions, similar to being "bound" by rules.

under the terms of

Specifies that obligations arise from a defined agreement or contract.

tied to

This phrase emphasizes a connection or dependency, similar to being "bound" to something.

controlled by

This alternative emphasizes the power dynamic where actions are dictated by external forces.

dependent on

This highlights a reliance on something, implying a form of restriction or obligation.

FAQs

How to use "bound by" in a sentence?

Use "bound by" to indicate that someone or something is obligated or restricted by a rule, agreement, or principle. For instance, "The contract states that we are "bound by" these terms".

What can I say instead of "bound by"?

You can use alternatives like "obligated by", "constrained by", or "restricted by" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "bound by" or "bound to"?

"Bound by" indicates an obligation or restriction due to a rule or agreement. "Bound to" implies a high probability or certainty of a future event. Choose based on the intended meaning.

What's the difference between "bound by" and "limited by"?

"Bound by" suggests a formal or legal obligation. "Limited by" indicates a restriction in scope, amount, or extent, which is less formal and may not involve a binding agreement.