grows to be

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "grows to be" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the process of development or transformation over time, often in relation to a person or thing reaching a certain state or condition. Example: "As she matures, she grows to be a more confident and assertive leader."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

It is a vigorous grower in full sun, and grows to be 6 to 10 feet tall.

The New York Times

The Little family's second child is a tiny mouse who only grows to be two inches tall.

The Guardian

The baby cuckoo rapidly grows to be far larger than the host parents, who continue to feed it.

The Guardian

Where it grows: To be honest, almost everywhere wine grapes are planted, because it is so popular.

The Washington Post

I particularly like the way her character develops and how she grows to be much more compassionate towards her sister and Aron in particular!

The Guardian

Like Peachleaf Bellflower, White Clustered Bellflower (Campanula glomerata) grows to be two to three feet tall, a moderate, middle-of-the-border height.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

They hatched and grew to be adults.

The New York Times - Science

They grew to be inefficient and bloated.

The Guardian

Hemlocks can grow to be up to 175 ft tall.

Cornell University

"We're too grown to be intimidated," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

The vines could grow to be 13 feet long.

Stanford University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the development of a subject over time, use "grows to be" to emphasize a gradual process leading to a specific state or characteristic. For instance, "The initial investment grows to be a significant asset over the years."

Common error

While "grows to be" is generally acceptable, avoid overuse in highly formal or scientific writing. Opt for alternatives like "becomes" or "develops into" for a more sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "grows to be" functions as a verb phrase indicating a process of development or transformation. It connects a subject with a resultant state achieved over time. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

18%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "grows to be" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe a gradual process of development or transformation. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and appears frequently in various contexts, especially in news, media, and scientific publications. While its register is generally neutral, writers should be mindful of context and consider more formal alternatives like "develops into" in academic or highly professional settings. By understanding its function and purpose, writers can effectively use "grows to be" to convey the sense of progressive change over time.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

becomes

Emphasizes the final state achieved after a period of change or growth.

turns into

Indicates a change or conversion, often unexpected or surprising.

develops into

Focuses on the transformation process, highlighting the end result of development.

ends up as

Indicates the final result or outcome, often after a period of uncertainty or change.

evolves into

Implies a gradual and complex process of change over time.

matures into

Suggests a natural process of growth and development, often in a positive sense.

transforms into

Highlights a significant and often dramatic change in form or character.

progresses to be

Focuses on the forward movement and advancement towards a specific state.

advances to be

Suggests improvement and movement to a more developed or skilled state.

culminates in being

Implies that a series of events or actions leads to a final, significant result.

FAQs

How can I use "grows to be" in a sentence?

Use "grows to be" to describe how someone or something gradually develops into a certain state. For example, "With dedication, a small seed "grows to be" a mighty tree."

What are some alternatives to "grows to be"?

Alternatives include "develops into", "becomes", or "evolves into", depending on the context. Choose the one that best fits the nuance you want to convey.

Is "grows to be" formal or informal?

"Grows to be" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, more formal options like "develops into" may be preferred in academic or professional writing.

What's the difference between "grows to be" and "becomes"?

"Grows to be" implies a gradual process of development or transformation, while "becomes" suggests a more immediate or definitive change. For instance, "He "became" the CEO" indicates a specific point in time, whereas "He "grew to be" a respected leader" implies a longer period of growth.