formed around

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase “formed around” is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that has been organized, structured, or shaped in a particular way. For example, “The school’s curriculum is formed around helping students develop their critical thinking skills.”.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Samiel hushed the crowd that had formed around his brother.

Los Angeles Times

A small crowd formed around them.

The New Yorker

Microsoft's DNA was formed around Windows.

The New York Times

New channels formed around the remaining ships.

The New York Times

Groups are formed around start-up ideas.

The Economist

A human chain formed around them.

The New Yorker

Interactive communities formed around the machines.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A crowd formed around her.

The New Yorker

A crowd formed around Marnie, cooing.

The New Yorker

They formed around 10,000 years ago.

The New York Times

Farmer co-ops are formed around these water collection nodes.

Columbia University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the establishment or development of an organization, use "formed around" to emphasize the central idea or principle that guided its creation.

Common error

Avoid using "formed around" when implying that something emerged spontaneously without a clear organizing principle. Instead, use phrases like "arose from" or "came about" to better convey the lack of deliberate structure.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "formed around" functions as a verb phrase, typically part of the predicate in a sentence. It describes the way something has been created or structured, emphasizing a central component or principle. Ludwig AI provides examples showing usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "formed around" is a versatile verb phrase indicating that something is structured or has developed with a central focus or organizing principle. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and appropriate for use in diverse contexts ranging from news media to scientific publications. The phrase is most commonly used to describe organizations, communities, or concepts that are centered around a core idea or element. Alternatives like "based on", "centered on", and "structured around" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Avoid using "formed around" when describing spontaneous events without clear organizing principles. When in doubt, consult Ludwig's examples to ensure accurate and impactful usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Founded around

Focuses specifically on the establishment or inception of something, with the core element at its center.

Structured around

Emphasizes the organization and arrangement of elements, with a central component serving as the framework.

Centered on

Highlights the centrality of a key element that other aspects revolve around.

Organized around

Similar to "structured around", but more broadly implies systematic arrangement with a focal point.

Developed around

Focuses on the gradual evolution and growth of something with a core element influencing its path.

Built upon

Implies a foundation or basis, where subsequent elements are added or constructed on top of a central component.

Evolved from

Focuses on the transformation and adaptation of something, stemming from a specific origin or core element.

Revolved around

Highlights the orbiting or dependence of elements around a central entity or concept.

Based on

Implies a dependence or reliance on a foundational element, with subsequent aspects originating from it.

Grew out of

Suggests emergence or development from a specific starting point or core.

FAQs

How can I use "formed around" in a sentence?

You can use "formed around" to describe how something is structured or centered on a particular idea, theme, or person. For example, "The curriculum is "structured around" project-based learning" or "A community "developed around" their shared passion for music".

What are some alternatives to the phrase "formed around"?

Alternatives include "based on", "centered on", "structured around", "revolved around", and "founded on". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "built around" instead of "formed around"?

Yes, "built around" is often a suitable alternative, especially when emphasizing the construction or development process with a central element. However, "formed around" can be more appropriate when highlighting the initial creation or organization of something.

What's the difference between "formed around" and "organized around"?

"Formed around" suggests the initial creation or shaping of something with a central element, while "organized around" implies a more deliberate and systematic arrangement with a focal point. The distinction lies in whether the emphasis is on the beginning or the structure.