firmly bound

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "firmly bound" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is securely tied or fastened, often in a physical or metaphorical sense. Example: "The documents were firmly bound together to ensure they would not get lost."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

Western Europe evolved from a "Community" to a "Union", and its states became less firmly bound to American protection.

The Guardian - Opinion

It was shown by release tests that the coordinated BDNF was firmly bound to the Zn II -chelated HAc for more than 12 days.

Biomaterials

Although very flexible, in the wild-type InhA-NADH complex, the NADH molecule keeps its extended conformation firmly bound to the enzyme's binding site.

Biophysical Journal

Like the laboratory catalysts, enzymes frequently have activators coenzymes, which may be prosthetic groups (firmly bound to the enzyme itself), and inorganic ions.

Britannica

Actually, that is a good description of how Lib Dems used to behave: now they are firmly bound to painful cuts and other policies in their coalition agreement.

The Economist

Though personally loyal to Quimby, she soon recognized that his healing method was based in mesmerism, or mental suggestion, rather than in the biblical Christianity to which she was so firmly bound.

Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

In pre-scientific civilizations, suggestions of the healer and the beliefs of the patients were the mainstays of headache treatment: in the Ebers papyrus [1], which was written in approximately 1200 BC, one treatment was to firmly bind a clay crocodile holding a grain in its mouth to the patient's head with a strip of linen bearing the names of the gods.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

It firmly binds the LIG4-XRCC4 (lIVase IV, DNA, ATP-dependent and X-ray X-rayrepairlementing defecomplementingin Chinese hamster cells 4) complex on defectivelating its double-strepair lination aChinese [ 68].

BMC Cancer

The eight cysteines bind to one another to form four disulfide bridges that give rise to a three-dimensional structure containing an internal hydrophobic cavityable to firmly bind lipids [ 44].

BMC Plant Biology

This mutant was previously characterized for its failure to firmly bind to FKN, most likely because of the inability of phenylalanine to be sulfated, a modification that enhances the binding to this chemokine.

Breast Cancer Research

RON2 inserts into the host cell PM and bridges the two cells during invasion: while it firmly binds to the zoite surface-exposed AMA1 protein, the role of this partnership has been controversial [ 23, 42, 43] and will only be resolved with a full understanding of the junction function(s).

BMC Biology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing abstract concepts or relationships, use "firmly bound" to emphasize a strong and lasting connection, such as "firmly bound to tradition".

Common error

Avoid using "firmly bound" to describe temporary or easily broken connections. The phrase implies a significant degree of permanence and strength; using it in a context where something is only temporarily secured weakens the impact and accuracy of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "firmly bound" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase, often modifying a noun to indicate a state of strong attachment or connection. Ludwig shows that it describes both physical and abstract relationships.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

64%

News & Media

26%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "firmly bound" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to convey a strong and lasting connection. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability across various contexts. Predominantly found in scientific, news, and encyclopedia sources, it maintains a neutral to formal register. When employing "firmly bound", ensure the context aligns with its implication of permanence; avoid using it for fleeting or easily broken connections. Alternatives like "securely fastened" or "strongly attached" may be more appropriate in certain scenarios. With a high expert rating and frequent occurrence, "firmly bound" remains a reliable choice for emphasizing robust relationships.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

securely fastened

Focuses on the physical act of fastening something in a secure manner, emphasizing stability.

tightly secured

Highlights the tightness of the bond, suggesting little to no movement is possible.

strongly attached

Emphasizes the strength of the connection, whether physical or emotional.

inextricably linked

Suggests a connection that is impossible to separate or undo, often used metaphorically.

closely connected

Indicates a strong relationship or association, emphasizing proximity and interdependence.

irrevocably committed

Focuses on a commitment that cannot be taken back, highlighting the permanence of the bond.

rigidly fixed

Highlights the immobility and inflexibility of the connection.

permanently affixed

Stresses the lasting nature of the attachment, indicating it is not temporary.

indissolubly joined

Suggests a union that cannot be broken or dissolved, often used in formal contexts.

unbreakable bond

Highlights the resilience and strength of a connection, often used to describe relationships.

FAQs

How can I use "firmly bound" in a sentence?

Use "firmly bound" to describe something securely attached or closely linked, such as "The company is "firmly bound" by its contractual obligations" or "The two elements are "firmly bound" together by their shared history".

What can I say instead of "firmly bound"?

You can use alternatives like "securely fastened", "tightly secured", or "strongly attached", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to use "firmly bound" in a metaphorical sense?

Yes, "firmly bound" can be used metaphorically to describe strong connections or commitments, such as being ""firmly bound" to one's principles".

What is the difference between "firmly bound" and "loosely connected"?

"Firmly bound" suggests a strong, stable, and often permanent connection, whereas "loosely connected" implies a weak, unstable, and easily broken association.