is being characterized

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is being characterized" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing the ongoing process of defining or describing the qualities or features of something. Example: "The new policy is being characterized as a significant step towards environmental sustainability."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

Bad news for Borders: its road to recovery is being characterized as "unrealistic" and "doubtful".

The New Yorker

Senator Joseph I. Lieberman's recent support of President Bush's Iraq policies is being characterized as disloyal to the Democratic Party.

The New York Times

"I think if anything is somewhat upsetting about it is that my adaptation is being characterized as simply bawdy," he declared.

The New York Times

The first chip is being characterized by analysts primarily as a steppingstone to future Itaniums that are expected to attract many more customers.

The New York Times

"While the effort that is being characterized is problematic, no one has defined Facebook as dominant in a market," he said, adding that the competition among social networks leaves it open to operate of its own devices.

The New York Times

Besides talking to carefully selected scientists and water experts, he visits pro-fracking residents of Dimock Township, Pa., who are annoyed that their community is being characterized as a toxic wasteland.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

You all now are being characterized as unsophisticated barbarians.

The New York Times

You can make a case for or against that, but it's unfair that the owners are being characterized as a bunch of crooks because of it".

The New York Times

Instead of being seen as important colleagues, pharmaceutical company employees are being characterized as the enemy.

The New York Times

Judge Engelmayer agreed that, clearly, Muslims were being characterized as savages.

The New York Times

In his resignation letter, Mr. Friedman said his public service on the board was being characterized as "improper" despite his compliance with the rules.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is being characterized" to maintain objectivity, especially when different characterizations exist. For example, "The policy is being characterized by some as a success, while others view it as a failure."

Common error

Don't use "is being characterized" when a simpler verb like "is" or "is described" suffices. For instance, instead of "The room is being characterized as large", consider "The room is large" or "The room is described as large".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is being characterized" functions as a passive verb phrase, indicating an ongoing action of describing or defining something. It is commonly used to express how a subject is currently perceived or presented. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable English form.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is being characterized" is a grammatically sound and usable English phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It functions as a passive verb phrase, denoting an ongoing process of describing or defining something. While its frequency is uncommon, it appears most often in news, media, and scientific contexts. When writing, it's best practice to use the phrase to maintain objectivity and avoid overuse in simple descriptions. Related alternatives include "is described as" or "is defined as". By considering these nuances, writers can effectively employ "is being characterized" in their work.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is described as

Uses a more direct verb to convey the act of characterizing.

is defined as

Emphasizes the act of providing a specific definition.

is labeled as

Highlights the assignment of a label or category.

is portrayed as

Focuses on the way something is represented or depicted.

is regarded as

Indicates a general opinion or perception.

is considered to be

Suggests a more thoughtful or deliberate assessment.

is known as

Highlights common knowledge or recognition.

is classified as

Emphasizes categorization or classification.

is assessed as

Focuses on the evaluation or judgment of something.

is designated as

Indicates a formal assignment or appointment.

FAQs

How can I use "is being characterized" in a sentence?

Use "is being characterized" when you want to express that something is in the process of being described or defined in a certain way. For example, "The project is being characterized as a major success".

What's a synonym for "is being characterized"?

Alternatives include "is described as", "is defined as", or "is labeled as". The best choice depends on the specific context.

When should I use "is being characterized" versus "is characterized"?

"Is being characterized" implies an ongoing process, while "is characterized" describes a state or established attribute. For example, "The debate is being characterized by heated arguments" (ongoing) versus "The element is characterized by its high reactivity" (established).

Is it correct to use "is being characterized" in formal writing?

Yes, "is being characterized" is grammatically correct and appropriate for formal writing, especially when indicating that a particular description or assessment is currently being applied.