have been spotlighted

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "have been spotlighted" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something has been highlighted or brought to attention, often in a context of discussion or analysis. Example: "The recent studies have been spotlighted in various academic journals, emphasizing their importance in the field."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

The trade organization has found itself squirming uncomfortably in the spotlight when the effects of trade treaties on environmental safeguards or the treatment of workers have been spotlighted.

The New York Times

Approximately 50 children have been spotlighted in the newsletters and Web site, and Ms. Nesnick said that, surprisingly, most had not been submitted by pushy parents.

The New York Times

Applications of siRNA for cancer therapy have been spotlighted in recent years, but the rational design of efficient siRNA delivery carriers is still controversial, especially because of possible toxicity of the carrier components.

Journal of Controlled Release

Dissolving microneedles (DMNs), designed to release drugs and dissolve after skin insertion, have been spotlighted as a novel transdermal delivery system due to their advantages such as minimal pain and tissue damage, ability to self-administer, and no associated hazardous residues.

Biomaterials

In recent years, 2-dimensional (2D) materials such as graphene and h-BN have been spotlighted, because of their unique properties and high potential applicability.

Nano Convergence

So that's why it's fortunate I'm around to fill in a little bit of information that was omitted and appears not to have been spotlighted anywhere else.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Al addition has been spotlighted to enhance solder properties.

Journal of Alloys and Compounds

The oleaginous microalga Nannochloropsis sp. has been spotlighted as a promising candidate in genetic engineering research for biodiesel production.

Bioresource Technology

Scavenging energy by piezoelectric nanogenerators (PENG) has been spotlighted as a promising approach to convert tiny mechanical energy into electricity.

Nano Energy

The willful blindness issue has been spotlighted in the Mets case by Judge Jed S. Rakoff of Federal District Court in Manhattan, who is known for bucking conventional wisdom.

The New York Times

With the Giants (1-1) hosTennesseeessee (1-1) on Sunday at New Meadowlands Stadium, Bulluck, who played with the Titans for 10 seasons, has been spotlighted.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "have been spotlighted" to clearly indicate that something has been brought to attention or given prominence, often in a deliberate way.

Common error

Avoid using "have been spotlighted" in very casual or informal writing, as it can sound overly formal. Opt for simpler alternatives like "highlighted" or "featured" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "have been spotlighted" functions as a passive verb phrase, indicating that the subject has received significant attention or emphasis. This is in line with Ludwig's assessment that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "have been spotlighted" is a grammatically sound passive verb construction used to indicate that something has been given significant attention or emphasis. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct for use in English writing. While not exceedingly common, it appears primarily in science and news contexts. When writing, bear in mind the suggestions: use it to indicate something brought to attention in a deliberate way, and avoid overusing it in casual conversation. Alternative phrases, such as "have been highlighted", can be used for similar effect.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have been highlighted

Simple substitution of synonym, maintains nearly identical meaning.

have been emphasized

Focuses on the importance or significance being stressed.

have been underscored

Highlights something already known, reinforcing its importance.

have been brought to the forefront

Implies active effort to make something prominent.

have been foregrounded

Similar to brought to the forefront, emphasizing placement in focus.

have gained prominence

Indicates an increase in visibility or importance over time.

have been put in the limelight

Implies intense public or media attention.

have been given attention

Suggests something is receiving focus but not necessarily positive.

have been showcased

Suggests displaying something in an attractive or favorable way.

have been flagged

Indicates something marked for attention, often for review or concern.

FAQs

How can I use "have been spotlighted" in a sentence?

Use "have been spotlighted" to indicate that something has been given significant attention or prominence. For example, "The issue of climate change /s/has+been+highlighted/ has been spotlighted in recent reports."

What are some alternatives to "have been spotlighted"?

You can use alternatives like "have been highlighted", "have been emphasized", or "have been brought to the forefront" depending on the context.

Is "have been spotlighted" too formal for everyday conversation?

While grammatically correct, "have been spotlighted" is generally more suitable for formal writing or professional contexts. Simpler terms like "highlighted" or "featured" might be better for casual conversation.

What's the difference between "have been spotlighted" and "have been mentioned"?

"Have been spotlighted" suggests a deliberate focus and emphasis, whereas "have been mentioned" simply means something was brought up without necessarily being emphasized.