is back in action

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is back in action" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone or something has returned to a state of activity or functionality after a period of absence or inactivity. Example: "After a long hiatus, the band is back in action and ready to tour again."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

9. Charles Kennedy is back in action.

The Guardian

"The brilliant Ingrid Oliver is back in action," he said.

Independent

10.59pm GMT Tom Cruise is back in action!

The Guardian - Film

But soon Wolverine is back in action and making mincemeat of his enemies once again.

The Economist

Andalucia in style The Al-Andalus train is back in action.

Independent

She first appeared in a silhouette, focusing on her middle section, which is back in action.

The New York Times

Dowsett is back in action in the Under-23 road race on Friday.

The Guardian - Sport

The Times's political unit is back in action in Tampa, Fla., broadcasting live with the latest from the convention hall.

The New York Times

Collison has not featured for the Hammers since the final game of last season but is back in action after recovering from a serious knee injury.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Megan Fox is back in action-star mode for 'Ninja Turtles,' but acting isn't her 'ultimate passion'.

Los Angeles Times

Serena Williams will be back in action soon.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is back in action" to convey a sense of renewed activity or functionality, especially after a period of absence or inactivity. It is suitable for describing people, organizations, or even inanimate objects.

Common error

Avoid using "is back in action" to describe something that has always been active or functional. The phrase implies a return from a previous state of inactivity or disrepair.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is back in action" functions as a predicate, indicating that a subject has returned to a state of activity or functionality. Ludwig AI shows that it commonly describes individuals, teams, or systems that have resumed their normal operations after a period of absence or inactivity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

96%

Science

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is back in action" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a return to activity or functionality after a period of absence. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its prevalence in news and media contexts. While the phrase is appropriate in most situations, ensure it aligns with the context. As shown by Ludwig, alternative phrases like "has resumed activity" or "is back in the game" can provide alternative shades of meaning depending on the context. Avoid using it when describing something that has always been active; the phrase implies a return from inactivity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is back in the game

Indicates a return to participation, often in a competitive context.

has resumed activity

Emphasizes the restart of actions or processes that had been paused.

has bounced back

Implies recovery from a setback or difficulty, now actively engaged.

has returned to form

Implies a restoration of previous skill or performance level.

is up and running again

Focuses on the resumption of operational status, often for systems or organizations.

is ready to roll

Suggests a state of preparedness and eagerness to start or resume activity.

is operational once more

Highlights the return to a functional state, typically after a period of repair or maintenance.

is functioning again

Stresses the renewed ability to perform intended tasks.

is revived

Focuses on the restoration of life, strength, or vigor, now actively engaged.

is in full swing again

Suggests a return to a state of busy activity and progress.

FAQs

How can I use "is back in action" in a sentence?

You can use "is back in action" to describe a person, team, or entity that has returned to a state of activity after a period of inactivity. For example, "After recovering from his injury, the quarterback "is back in action" for the team's next game."

What's a more formal alternative to "is back in action"?

For a more formal tone, you could use phrases like "has resumed operations" or "has returned to service". These alternatives are suitable for business or official contexts where a more direct and less figurative expression is preferred. An example could be: "The factory "has resumed operations" after the repairs were completed".

Is "is back in action" suitable for describing inanimate objects?

Yes, "is back in action" can be used for inanimate objects to indicate they are functional again after being out of service. For example, "After extensive repairs, the old printing press "is back in action"".

What's the difference between "is back in action" and "is back on track"?

"Is back in action" generally implies a return to activity after a period of inactivity, while "is back on track" suggests a return to the correct course or plan after a deviation. The former is about resuming activity, while the latter is about correcting direction.