is

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used as a linking verb to connect the subject of a sentence with a subject complement. Example: "The sky is blue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And so it is.

The New York Times

What is going on here?

The New York Times

This is wrong".

The New York Times

It is easy to see why.

The New York Times

He is wrong.

The New York Times

The reason is simple.

The New York Times

Who is that?

The Guardian

And that is true.

The New York Times

"But time is running out".

The New York Times

She is not alone.

The New York Times

But is this right?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is" to connect a subject with a descriptive adjective or noun, ensuring clear and concise sentence structure.

Common error

Avoid using "is" with plural subjects; ensure the verb agrees in number (e.g., "they are", not "they is").

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "is" is that of a linking verb. It connects the subject of a sentence to a subject complement, which describes or identifies the subject. As Ludwig AI confirms, it signifies existence or equality. This function is evident in numerous examples, such as "He is a doctor."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Formal & Business

22%

Science

22%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the verb "is" serves as a cornerstone of English grammar, functioning primarily as a linking verb to connect subjects with their attributes. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it correctly adheres to standard grammar rules and exhibits very common usage across diverse contexts. Predominantly found in "News & Media", "Formal & Business", and scientific sources, "is" maintains a neutral register and facilitates clear communication. Remember to ensure subject-verb agreement and consider alternative verbs like "exists" or "represents" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exists

Replaces "is" to emphasize the state of being or existence.

does exist

Adds emphasis to the existence of something.

can be found

Focuses on the possibility of locating or discovering something.

constitutes

Indicates that something is part of a larger whole or forms something.

represents

Highlights the symbolic or indicative nature of something.

equals

Emphasizes the equivalence or sameness of two things.

may be

Introduces uncertainty or possibility.

happens to be

Highlights the coincidental or unexpected nature of something.

can represent

Focuses on the potential of something to represent another thing

embodies

Suggests that something is a tangible representation of an idea or quality.

FAQs

How to use "is" in a sentence?

Use "is" to connect the subject of a sentence to a noun or adjective that describes it. For example, "The sky is blue."

What can I say instead of "is"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "exists", "represents", or "equals".

Which is correct, "he is" or "he are"?

"He is" is the correct form. "Is" is used with singular subjects like he, she, and it.

What's the difference between "is" and "are"?

"Is" is used with singular subjects, while "are" is used with plural subjects. For example, "he is" versus "they are".