had been erect

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "had been erect" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing physical states or conditions, often in medical or anatomical discussions. Example: "The patient reported that he had been erect for several hours, which raised concerns for the doctor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

The scaffold had been erect- ed at a five-story brick building that was being demolished, offi- cials said.

The New York Times

A couple of marquees had been erected.

The Economist

A grieving tent had been erected outside.

The Guardian

Temporary doors had been erected everywhere, with guards posted.

The New York Times

A gallows had been erected where Lady Liberty now stands.

The New York Times - Arts

Firefighters said the framework of the building had been erected, but not much else.

The New York Times

Wire fencing had been erected along most streets, cordoning off the destroyed buildings.

The New Yorker

During the visit, the single pavilion that had been erected told the life of Alexander Hamilton.

The New York Times - Arts

It had been erected after a boy and a cow wandered inside and drowned.

The New Yorker

Down the street from the Lama Temple, white metal barricades had been erected along the sidewalks.

The New Yorker

In addition to the randomized search gantlet, a fence had been erected around the parking lot.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the register and formality of your writing. While "had been erected" is suitable for formal contexts, simpler alternatives like "had been built" might be more appropriate for informal settings.

Common error

Avoid using "had been erect" in casual or informal writing. Its formal tone can sound unnatural in everyday conversation or informal communication. Opt for simpler, more accessible alternatives like "was built" or "was set up" in such contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "had been erect" functions as a past perfect passive construction. It indicates that something was in an upright or constructed state at a time prior to another point in the past. Ludwig examples show its usage in describing structures, fences, and other physical objects that were previously set up.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

33%

Science

32%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "had been erect" is a grammatically sound past perfect passive construction primarily used to describe a state of being in which something was previously raised or constructed. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. While versatile, it leans toward formal and neutral contexts, making it suitable for news, encyclopedic entries, and scientific writing. Simpler alternatives like "had been raised" or "had been built" might be preferred in informal settings. When using "had been erect", ensure the context is clear and that the level of formality aligns with the intended audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

had been raised

Replaces "erect" with a more common synonym, focusing on the action of lifting something up.

had been constructed

Substitutes "erect" with "constructed", emphasizing the process of building or assembling something.

had been built

A simpler alternative to "had been erected", focusing on the act of building.

had been set up

Replaces "erect" with a phrasal verb, implying the act of preparing or establishing something.

had been established

Focuses on the act of founding or creating something, rather than the physical act of raising it.

had been installed

Highlights the act of placing something in position for use or service.

had been positioned

Emphasizes the placement of something in a specific location or arrangement.

had been stood up

Replaces "erect" with a phrasal verb, meaning to be placed in an upright or standing position.

had been put in place

Indicates the action of setting something in its intended location or condition.

had been stood

A simplified way of saying that something was in an upright position

FAQs

What does "had been erect" mean?

The phrase "had been erect" means that something was raised, built, or set up in an upright position at some point in the past. It often refers to structures or frameworks that were constructed.

What are some alternatives to "had been erect"?

You can use alternatives like "had been raised", "had been constructed", or "had been built" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "had been erect"?

It's suitable in formal writing or when describing a deliberate construction or establishment. However, consider the audience and context to ensure it doesn't sound overly formal or stilted.

Is "had been erect" the same as "had been erected"?

While very similar, "had been erect" can sometimes refer to something simply being in an upright state, whereas "had been erected" specifically implies the action of building or constructing something. So, "erected" has a stronger connotation of purposeful construction.