Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
circulated in
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "circulated in" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the distribution or sharing of information, documents, or materials within a specific group or context. Example: "The report was circulated in the department to ensure everyone was informed of the latest updates."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Formal & Business
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
Our results suggested that ST131-CTX-M-15-ESBL-EC strains have circulated in Saudi Arabia.
The photographs also circulated in refugee camps.
News & Media
"Cathy" at first circulated in only about three dozen newspapers.
News & Media
Pamphlets circulated in Tira calling him a "Jewish pig".
News & Media
A variety of publications are circulated in Malawi.
Encyclopedias
The first paper money circulated in China in around 1000AD.
News & Media
The joke circulated in February and March 2003.
News & Media
Two versions circulated in the 60's and 70's.
News & Media
Other allegations circulated in the media have been patently false.
News & Media
Rumors of snipers — both police officers and criminal gunmen — circulated in the weeks after the storm.
News & Media
The idea has circulated in various forms, though it runs into legal and practical problems.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "circulated in", ensure the subject and object are logically connected. For example, "The rumor circulated in the office" is more effective than "The office circulated in the rumor."
Common error
Avoid using "circulated in" with abstract or intangible subjects that cannot logically contain something. It's better to say "The idea was discussed in the meeting" rather than "The meeting circulated in the idea."
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.6/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "circulated in" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the movement or distribution of something within a specific context. This is evidenced by Ludwig, which showcases examples where the phrase is used to describe the spread of information, pathogens, or publications.
Frequent in
Science
54%
News & Media
38%
Wiki
8%
Less common in
Formal & Business
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "circulated in" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to describe the movement or distribution of something within a particular area or group. Ludwig confirms its correct usage across diverse contexts. It is frequently found in scientific and news-related articles, indicating its widespread acceptance. When writing, ensure that the subject logically connects with the object to avoid misuse. Although widely accepted, be mindful to avoid using it with abstract subjects. When a more precise meaning is needed, alternatives like "distributed within" or "disseminated throughout" may be more suitable.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
Distributed within
Focuses on the act of spreading something among members of a group or area.
Disseminated throughout
Implies a wider, more thorough spread of information or objects.
Spread among
Focuses on the distribution to individual members or entities within a group.
Propagated through
Suggests a gradual spreading or reproduction of something, like a rumor or idea.
Transmitted through
Highlights the act of passing something, like a disease or message, from one entity to another within a space.
Present within
Indicates the existence or presence of something inside a defined space or group.
Prevalent in
Suggests that is very common in a setting, and can be negative or neutral (unlike 'rife within').
Common in
Highlights the prevalence or usual occurrence of something in a certain location.
Rife within
Emphasizes that the specific setting is permeated by something, mostly negative (like rumors)
Existed within
Emphasizes the historical presence of something within a particular boundary.
FAQs
How can I use "circulated in" in a sentence?
You can use "circulated in" to describe the movement or distribution of something within a specific area or group. For instance, "The memo "circulated in" the department" or "The virus "circulated in" the community."
What are some alternatives to "circulated in"?
Alternatives to "circulated in" include "distributed within", "disseminated throughout", or "propagated through". The best choice depends on the specific context.
Is it correct to say "circulated into" instead of "circulated in"?
No, the correct preposition to use with "circulated" is "in". Saying "circulated into" is grammatically incorrect. You should always use ""circulated in"".
What's the difference between "distributed in" and "circulated in"?
"Distributed in" implies a planned or systematic allocation, while ""circulated in"" suggests a more general or less controlled spread within a given area or group. For example, "The pamphlets were distributed in the library" versus "Rumors circulated in the school."
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.6/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested