he is exercised

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "he is exercised" is correct and can be used in written English, though it is somewhat uncommon.
It can be used in contexts where someone is being emotionally or mentally affected by something, often in a formal or literary sense. Example: "He is exercised over the recent changes in policy that could impact the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

In particular, he is exercised by the Lisbon Treaty, which he asserts grants the European Commission powers to invade Britain, should the British ever try to leave the union.

The Economist

Pickles is the government's new anti-corruption tsar and he is exercised about the sanctity of our voting system, notably the terrible excesses that occurred in the London borough of Tower Hamlets.

The Guardian

And he is exercised by the potential introduction of a stricter press regulatory regime that could inhibit his papers' editorial freedom, which means his own freedom to say and do as he likes.

The Guardian - Opinion

Leigh is known for a pessimistic aspect, and so, while "overwhelmed, it's a joy" to have his old TV work made available in this way, he is exercised by one play that can't be included.

The Guardian - Film

The curse words that slip into Mr. Packer's sentences when he is exercised only aid his unintentional seduction, which culminates in an uncanny ability to speak on any subject and articulate without fail whatever sentiment New York City reporters expect John Q. Public to express.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

But the bed sores are healing, he is exercising his knees and was enthusiastic.

The New York Times - Health

"My understanding, at least, is he is exercising his constitutional right to make a statement.

The Guardian - Sport

He is exercising power by privilege of birth that should be accountable.

The Guardian

For now, he is exercising on a bike and in a pool.

The New York Times - Sports

To retain it, a President must preserve the confidence of the American people that he is exercising it with integrity.

The New Yorker

It does not feel as if he is exercising sufficient American leadership and power, even if he is in fact working to solve a problem".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider stronger or more direct alternatives like "concerned", "worried", or "troubled" for clarity and impact, especially in less formal writing.

Common error

Avoid using "he is exercised" in casual conversations or informal writing. It can sound overly formal or unnatural. Opt for more common and relatable phrases to convey concern or worry.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "he is exercised" functions primarily as a stative verb phrase, indicating a state of being affected or concerned about something. Ludwig confirms its correctness, though suggesting it's not commonly used.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "he is exercised" is a grammatically correct but relatively uncommon way to express concern or agitation. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's more suited for formal or literary contexts. While understandable, it's often better to use more direct alternatives like "he is concerned" or "he is worried" for clarity. Predominantly found in news and media sources, mastering appropriate use ensures clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

he is concerned

Replaces "exercised" with a more common synonym, indicating worry or interest.

he is worried

Similar to 'concerned' but emphasizes a feeling of anxiety.

he is troubled

Indicates a state of mental or emotional distress, a more intense form of concern.

he is agitated

Focuses on the outward display of restlessness or irritation.

he is bothered

Implies a sense of annoyance or mild disturbance.

he is influenced

Shifts the meaning to being affected or swayed by something.

he is affected

Similar to 'influenced', indicating an impact or change due to something.

he is moved

Suggests being emotionally touched or stirred by something.

he is responsive

Indicates a reaction or willingness to engage with something.

he is attentive

Focuses on paying close attention to something, showing interest or care.

FAQs

What does "he is exercised" mean?

The phrase "he is exercised" means that he is troubled, concerned, or agitated about something. It suggests that something is weighing heavily on his mind.

What can I say instead of "he is exercised"?

You can use alternatives like "he is concerned", "he is worried", or "he is troubled" depending on the context.

Is "he is exercised" formal or informal?

"He is exercised" is considered a more formal or literary expression. In everyday conversation, alternatives like "he is worried" or "he is concerned" are more common.

How to use "he is exercised" in a sentence?

Example: "He is exercised by the potential consequences of the new policy." This shows he's troubled or concerned about the policy's impact.