is a violation

USAGE SUMMARY

"is a violation" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is usually used to describe an action or behavior that goes against rules, laws, or ethical/moral codes. Example: Smoking in a non-designated area is a violation of the school's policy and may result in disciplinary action.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This is a violation.

The New York Times

A violation is a violation.

The New York Times

It is a violation.

The New York Times

This is a violation of conscience".

The New York Times

It is a violation of the house.

The New York Times

"It is a violation of women's rights.

The Guardian

"Really this is a violation," he said.

The New York Times

This is a violation of human rights".

The New York Times

Being spied on once is a violation.

The New York Times - Magazine

"Moore's Law is a violation of Murphy's Law.

The Economist

And receiving him in Qatar is a violation".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is a violation", clearly specify what rule, law, or standard is being violated to avoid ambiguity. For instance, specify "is a violation of company policy" rather than just "is a violation".

Common error

Avoid using "is a violation" without providing specific context. Saying "that's a violation" without clarifying what standard is breached weakens your statement and might confuse your audience. Always specify the rule or law that's being contravened.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is a violation" functions as a predicate nominative, linking a subject to a noun phrase that renames or describes it. It asserts that something contravenes a specific rule, law, or standard. Ludwig AI confirms this use with numerous examples from varied sources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

27%

Academia

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is a violation" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression for indicating that a rule, law, or standard has been breached. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears predominantly in news and media, scientific, and academic contexts, carrying a neutral to formal tone. When using this phrase, clarity is key: specifying what exactly is being violated ensures your message is unambiguous and impactful. While alternatives exist, "is a violation" remains a straightforward and widely accepted way to convey disapproval of actions that contravene established norms.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

constitutes an infringement

This alternative uses a more formal and legalistic term, "infringement", implying a breach of a right or law.

represents a breach

This alternative uses "breach", suggesting a failure to adhere to an agreement or standard.

is a transgression

This alternative uses "transgression", implying a more serious violation, often with moral or ethical implications.

is an infraction

This alternative, "infraction", often refers to a minor violation of a rule or law.

is a contravention

This alternative uses "contravention", indicating a direct opposition or breach of a law or regulation.

is non-compliant

This alternative uses "non-compliant", emphasizing the failure to meet required standards or regulations.

is against the rules

This alternative is a more informal and straightforward way of saying something is not allowed.

is not permitted

This alternative directly states that the action is not allowed or authorized.

is illicit

This alternative suggests that the action is illegal or morally wrong.

is forbidden

This alternative indicates that the action is strictly prohibited and not allowed under any circumstances.

FAQs

How can I use "is a violation" in a sentence?

You can use "is a violation" to indicate that a rule, law, or standard has been broken. For example, "Trespassing on private property is a violation of the law".

What are some alternatives to using "is a violation"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "constitutes an infringement", "represents a breach", or "is a transgression".

Is it always necessary to specify what is being violated when using "is a violation"?

While not always grammatically required, specifying what rule or standard is being violated provides clarity and strengthens the impact of your statement. Providing context helps avoid ambiguity and ensures your message is clear.

Can "is a violation" be used in both formal and informal contexts?

Yes, "is a violation" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it is more commonly found in formal or professional settings where rules and laws are being discussed. In informal settings, simpler alternatives like "against the rules" might be preferred.