imprisoned by

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "imprisoned by" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone feels trapped or constrained by a particular circumstance, emotion, or obligation. Example: "She felt imprisoned by her responsibilities, unable to pursue her dreams."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Such people feel imprisoned by invisible chains.

The New Yorker

"I'm not imprisoned by it".

The New Yorker

Are we imprisoned by our names?

The New York Times

At times, I felt imprisoned by that".

The Guardian

In short, Beaujolais is imprisoned by clichés.

The New York Times

Keita was briefly imprisoned by the French in 1946.

Encyclopedia Britannica

They are not imprisoned by some rigid ideology.

The New York Times

He was imprisoned by the communist government in Sighet.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He was deposed and imprisoned by the antipope Christopher.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Mostly, they are pathetic creatures, imprisoned by sexual desire.

The New Yorker

Milton's Galileo was a free man imprisoned by intolerance.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "imprisoned by" metaphorically, ensure the context clearly establishes the nature of the constraint, whether it's emotional, societal, or circumstantial. Using specific language to define the cause of the "imprisonment" will clarify your intended message.

Common error

Avoid using "imprisoned by" in overly abstract or vague contexts. Without sufficient detail, the metaphor can become cliché and lose its impact. Provide concrete examples to show how the subject is restricted or confined.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "imprisoned by" functions as a passive construction, indicating that the subject is being acted upon. It signifies a state of confinement or restriction imposed by an external force or factor. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples showing diverse applications of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Encyclopedias

20%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Science

7%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "imprisoned by" is a versatile expression used to describe a state of confinement or restriction, whether literal or metaphorical. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and frequently employed across various contexts, particularly in news, encyclopedias and media. While generally neutral in tone, it's most impactful when used with specific details to clarify the nature of the constraint. Remember to consider the context carefully to avoid overuse in abstract situations. Related phrases such as "constrained by" or "restricted by" can serve as alternatives, depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

constrained by

Focuses on restriction or limitation, emphasizing a lack of freedom to act or choose.

restricted by

Highlights the existence of specific rules or limits that prevent certain actions or behaviors.

bound by

Suggests a sense of obligation or duty that limits one's freedom.

confined by

Emphasizes physical or metaphorical enclosure, limiting movement or scope.

encumbered by

Highlights the burden or weight of something that hinders progress or freedom.

held captive by

Implies a state of being controlled or dominated by an external force or influence.

trapped by

Focuses on the feeling of being stuck or unable to escape a difficult situation.

shackled by

Emphasizes the use of restraints or limitations that severely restrict freedom.

dominated by

Suggests a power imbalance where one entity exerts control over another.

controlled by

Highlights the exertion of influence or authority that directs the behavior or actions of someone.

FAQs

What does "imprisoned by" mean?

The phrase "imprisoned by" means being confined or restricted, either literally like in jail, or metaphorically, such as being limited by circumstances, emotions, or obligations.

What are some synonyms for "imprisoned by"?

Alternatives to "imprisoned by" include "constrained by", "restricted by", or "confined by" depending on the specific context.

How can I use "imprisoned by" in a sentence?

You can use "imprisoned by" to describe someone who is literally in prison, or to describe someone who feels trapped by their circumstances. For example: "She felt imprisoned by her responsibilities".

Is it always literal when something is "imprisoned by" something?

No, "imprisoned by" is often used metaphorically to describe being held back or restricted by non-physical forces, such as emotions or societal norms. It's not always a literal state of confinement.