coloured by

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "coloured by" is a perfectly acceptable and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to describe something that has been influenced or impacted by some kind of emotion or sentiment. For example, "His speech was heavily coloured by his political beliefs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is a choice coloured by fear.

The Guardian - Sport

Yet it is coloured by personal taste.

The Guardian - Opinion

The interlude was coloured by levity.

The Guardian - Sport

Military, strategic and political thinking is coloured by abject caution.

The Guardian - Opinion

However critics argue that it is coloured by US interests.

The Guardian

Those motivations are further coloured by class, culture and experience.

The Guardian - Opinion

Vocal lines are supported and coloured by quirky instrumental pairings.

The Guardian - Music

His thoughts, though, were also coloured by transfer-market business.

The Guardian - Sport

Justice, unlike tragedy, is too often coloured by society's prejudices.

The Guardian - Opinion

Inevitably, my views are coloured by personal experience.

The Guardian

Havana Marking's film promises a story coloured by pornography and prostitution as well as mere infidelity.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Employ "coloured by" when you want to indicate that something is not entirely defined by a particular factor, but noticeably influenced by it.

Common error

Avoid using "coloured by" excessively in highly formal or technical writing. While acceptable, more precise and direct alternatives like "influenced by" or "shaped by" might enhance clarity and conciseness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "coloured by" functions as a passive verb phrase, indicating that a subject is influenced or affected by something. Ludwig AI examples demonstrate its use in describing how various factors, like fear or personal experience, modify perceptions, decisions, or artistic creations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

24%

Encyclopedias

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "coloured by" is a versatile expression used to indicate that something is influenced or affected by a particular factor, belief, or experience. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and demonstrates its common usage across diverse contexts, particularly in news, science, and encyclopedic sources. While generally neutral in register, it's advisable to consider more direct alternatives for highly formal writing. Effective usage involves recognizing the subtle nuances of influence and choosing "coloured by" when you want to convey that something is not entirely defined but noticeably shaped by a particular element. Remember to avoid overuse and consider more precise alternatives like "influenced by" or "shaped by" when clarity is paramount.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

influenced by

This alternative indicates a direct impact on something, similar to how color affects an image.

shaped by

Suggests that something has been molded or formed by a particular force or factor.

affected by

Indicates a direct impact or influence, often implying a change or modification.

tinged with

Suggests a subtle influence or flavor, similar to adding a slight color.

marked by

This alternative indicates that something is characterized or distinguished by a specific quality or feature.

characterized by

Implies that a certain attribute is a defining feature, affecting its overall nature.

informed by

Indicates that something is guided or influenced by knowledge or understanding.

under the influence of

Highlights the controlling power of something over a subject, modifying its actions or nature.

subject to

Indicates that something is vulnerable or likely to be affected by a particular condition.

filtered through

Implies that something has been passed through and altered by a particular perspective or experience.

FAQs

How can I use "coloured by" in a sentence?

You can use "coloured by" to describe how a particular feeling, idea, or experience affects something. For example, "His decision was "coloured by" his past experiences."

What are some alternatives to "coloured by"?

Alternatives to "coloured by" include "influenced by", "shaped by", and "affected by". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "coloured by" formal or informal?

"Coloured by" is generally considered neutral and suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though in very technical or academic writing, more precise alternatives may be preferred.

How does "coloured by" differ from "influenced by"?

"Coloured by" often suggests a subtle or nuanced effect, whereas "influenced by" can imply a more direct and significant impact. "Coloured by" can also imply an emotional tint.