he appropriated

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "he appropriated" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone takes something for their own use, often without permission or acknowledgment. Example: "In his latest artwork, he appropriated elements from various cultures to create a unique piece."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He appropriated Mr. McCain's anti-establishment mantle.

The New York Times

He appropriated classic men's fashion, and designed elegant pants suits.

The New York Times

Quite simply, he appropriated work done by someone else.

The New Yorker

Just as he has been appropriated, so he appropriated ideas from everyone else.

The Economist

Wyeth did the same — he appropriated these domestic spaces and made his work in them.

The New York Times

He appropriated - without passion, without sharing - a part of our heritage.

The Guardian - Sport

He appropriated the tune from the repertory of the barrelhouse piano player Clarence Smith, who was also known as Pinetop.

The New York Times - Arts

One, on a horse farm, was vacant, and he appropriated a bedroom on the second floor for his office.

The New York Times - Health

In Key West, he appropriated train cars carrying 3.5 million pounds of cooking lard bound for Havana.

The New York Times

Take his changeable tattoo: to create it, he appropriated the idea behind electronic paper and applied it to skin.

The New Yorker

Doctorow was noted for the facility with which he appropriated genre conceits to illuminate the historical periods in which he set his novels.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "he appropriated", ensure the context clearly indicates whether the action was ethical or unethical, as the word can imply both adaptation and improper taking.

Common error

Avoid using "he appropriated" without providing sufficient context about the source and legitimacy of the action. Clarify whether the appropriation was a form of innovation, theft, or cultural insensitivity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "he appropriated" primarily functions as a verb phrase indicating an action performed by a male subject. As demonstrated by Ludwig, it describes the act of taking something for one's own use, often implying a lack of permission or proper acknowledgment.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "he appropriated" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to describe a male individual taking something for his own use. As per Ludwig, while it doesn't inherently imply wrongdoing, the context often dictates whether the action is ethical or unethical. Ludwig’s analysis highlights the phrase's common occurrence in news, encyclopedias, and scientific sources, emphasizing the importance of considering context to avoid misinterpretations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

he adopted

This alternative suggests a more willing or conscious choice to take something, possibly with the intention of integrating it.

he seized

Emphasizes a forceful or sudden taking of something, often implying control or dominance.

he took possession of

Suggests a formal or legal acquisition of something.

he commandeered

Implies taking control of something, especially for military or public use.

he borrowed

Suggests a temporary taking with the intention of returning, though this may not always be the case.

he assumed

Suggests taking on a responsibility, role, or characteristic.

he usurped

Highlights the illegitimacy of the taking, often referring to power or authority.

he replicated

Focuses on copying or reproducing something, potentially without originality.

he laid claim to

Emphasizes the act of asserting ownership or right to something.

he annexed

Implies formally incorporating territory or property into one's own.

FAQs

How is "he appropriated" used in a sentence?

The phrase "he appropriated" is used to describe someone taking something, often without explicit permission. For example, "In his presentation, he appropriated data from a competitor's report without attribution".

What are some alternatives to "he appropriated"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "he appropriated" include "he adopted", "he seized", or "he took possession of".

Does "he appropriated" always imply wrongdoing?

While "he appropriated" can suggest unethical behavior or theft, it can also simply mean adopting or borrowing something. The specific nuance depends heavily on context. It's essential to check its definition and synonyms.

Is it appropriate to use "he appropriated" in formal writing?

Yes, "he appropriated" is suitable for formal writing, especially when discussing intellectual property, artistic influences, or historical events. However, ensure clarity and avoid ambiguity in your usage.