for it to be

USAGE SUMMARY

The expression "for it to be" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
For example: "He waited for it to be his turn."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I waited for it to be over.

The New Yorker

"We're ready for it to be over".

The New York Times

For it to be me who decides.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

For it to be that easy.

The Guardian - Music

What I want isn't just for it to be me.

Yale University

How long does it take for it to be issued?

Columbia University

I longed for it to be brilliant sunshine.

Harvard University

We intend for it to be a compelling narrative.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

This newspaper has long called for it to be scrapped.

The Economist

Still, I would like for it to be true, obviously.

The New Yorker

I'd kind of like for it to be gone".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In formal writing, consider alternatives like "in order for it to be" or "so that it may be" for a more sophisticated tone.

Common error

Avoid using "for it to be" when a simpler, more direct construction suffices. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound unnecessarily convoluted. For example, instead of saying "I waited for it to be completed", consider "I waited for its completion".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for it to be" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase introducing an infinitive clause, often expressing purpose, condition, or possibility. Ludwig indicates this structure is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Academia

24%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "for it to be" is a versatile and grammatically sound construction used to express purpose, condition, or possibility. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread use across various contexts. As shown by Ludwig's examples, its primary function is to introduce an infinitive clause, often indicating a desired outcome or a necessary condition. While suitable for both formal and informal writing, simpler alternatives may sometimes be preferable to avoid convolution. Remember to ensure clarity in the subject 'it' and to consider more sophisticated options in formal contexts. The phrase's frequency underscores its importance in effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

so that it can be

This alternative highlights the purpose or result of an action, focusing on enabling a specific outcome.

in order for it to exist

This alternative emphasizes the necessary condition for something's existence, adding a layer of emphasis to the necessity.

to allow it to become

This phrase underscores the aspect of permission or enablement, shifting the focus to the process of transformation.

so it is able to be

This suggests capability or potential, suited for expressing the possibility of something occurring.

with the aim of it being

This alternative emphasizes intention and purpose, particularly suited for formal contexts where objectives are clearly defined.

with the goal of it becoming

This alternative stresses the desired result or transformation, fitting contexts where aspirations are key.

for the purpose of it existing

This version is more formal and emphasizes the reason behind something's existence or occurrence.

that it may exist

This option offers a slightly more formal or literary tone, implying possibility or allowance.

to facilitate its existence

This option concentrates on easing the path for something to come into being, suited for scenarios where obstacles are being overcome.

for its potential to materialize

This is a more formal phrasing that focuses on the realization of something's potential.

FAQs

How can I use "for it to be" in a sentence?

The phrase "for it to be" is often used to express a condition or purpose. For example: "He worked hard "for it to be" a success" or "She needed time "for it to be" completed properly".

What are some alternatives to "for it to be"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "in order for it to be", "so that it can be", or "to allow it to become". Each alternative offers a slightly different nuance.

Which is correct, "for it to be" or "for it being"?

While both can be grammatically correct, "for it to be" is generally preferred when expressing a purpose or condition related to a future action or state. "For it being" is more common when referring to an ongoing situation.

What’s the difference between "for it to be" and "that it is"?

"For it to be" indicates a future possibility or a condition that needs to be met, whereas "that it is" typically refers to a present state or fact.