faced execution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "faced execution" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing legal penalties, particularly in reference to someone who has been sentenced to death. Example: "After a lengthy trial, the defendant faced execution for his crimes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

He faced execution if convicted, a prospect that, records show, his well-respected lawyer did little to avoid.

The New York Times

Two of the men could have faced execution, but received life sentences after the jury deadlocked on the death penalty.

The New York Times

Before this committee a prisoner was essentially asked one question:  "Are you still loyal to the MEK?"  Anyone who responded short of total repentance and submission faced execution.

Independent

One story is that back in the third century, a saint named _________, who faced execution for officiating illegal marriages, fell in love with his jailer's _________.

The New York Times

He was sentenced to two years for defection; someone found guilty of that crime in the era of Mao Zedong could have faced execution.

The New York Times

But because of appeals, death penalty lawyers said it would probably be many years before Mr. Hayes faced execution, if he ever does.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

though she still faces execution.

The New York Times

Berlusconi, too, faces execution.

The Guardian

Even when gays do not face execution, persecution is endemic.

The Economist

But he was summoned to Paris possibly to face execution.

The New York Times - Books

An inmate faces execution as soon as December, he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about historical events or legal cases, using "faced execution" can add a layer of tension and uncertainty to the narrative.

Common error

Avoid using "faced execution" when the person was actually executed. "Faced execution" implies the possibility of execution, whether it occurred or not. If the person was executed, use "was executed" for accuracy.

Linguistic Context

"Faced execution" functions as a verb phrase, typically part of a larger clause. It indicates that an individual was in a situation where they were at risk of receiving the death penalty. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

96%

Science

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "faced execution" is a grammatically sound and commonly used verb phrase that signifies an individual was in danger of being put to death as a legal punishment. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and correctness. As the examples illustrate, it is most frequently found in news and media contexts, often conveying a sense of high stakes and legal severity. While alternatives like "was sentenced to death" or "was on death row" exist, "faced execution" emphasizes the period and the uncertainty of the process. Using it correctly involves ensuring that it is not used when the execution has already occurred, but rather when the individual was in danger of it. The frequency of the expression is common and its tone varies from neutral to formal.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

was under sentence of death

Highlights the formal sentencing aspect.

was subject to the death penalty

Highlights the legal subjection to capital punishment.

was liable to be executed

This alternative focuses on the legal liability and potential for execution.

was on death row

Refers to the specific location and status of those awaiting execution.

was in danger of being executed

Emphasizes the peril and threat of execution.

was slated for execution

Indicates a scheduled or planned execution.

was awaiting capital punishment

Emphasizes the anticipation and the type of punishment.

was condemned to die

Focuses on the condemnation and impending death.

was to be put to death

A more direct and literal expression of the act of execution.

was threatened with execution

Emphasizes the threat and potential for execution, even if it did not occur.

FAQs

How is "faced execution" used in a sentence?

The phrase "faced execution" is used to describe a situation where someone was at risk of being put to death as a legal punishment. Example: "The defendant "faced execution" if convicted of the crime."

What are some alternatives to "faced execution"?

Alternatives include "was sentenced to death", "was on death row", or "was liable to be executed", depending on the specific context you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "faces execution" or "faced execution"?

"Faces execution" is present tense, describing a current situation. "Faced execution" is past tense, describing a situation that occurred in the past. Choose the tense that accurately reflects the timeline of events.

What is the difference between "faced execution" and "was executed"?

"Faced execution" means someone was in a situation where they might be executed, but it doesn't necessarily mean they were. "Was executed" means the person was actually put to death. The first indicates a possibility, while the second indicates a completed action.