is confined

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is confined" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is a passive verb phrase used to describe a subject that is restricted, limited, or restrained in some way. Example: "The prisoner is confined to his cell for 23 hours a day." In this sentence, "is confined" describes the state of the prisoner being restricted to his cell for a specific amount of time.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Ritual nakedness is confined to priests.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Modernization is confined to the main streets.

Encyclopedia Britannica

One is confined in the Lubyanka.

The Guardian - Books

Mostly our insuring is confined to pitchers.

The New York Times - Sports

Heterogeneity is confined to the longitudinal direction.

International Journal of Solids and Structures

""The entire process is confined to executive-branch agencies.

Stanford University

Held: The §1 exemption is confined to transportation workers.

Cornell University

My protest is confined to the disclaimer of jurisdiction.

Cornell University

This appeal is confined to that single question.

Harvard University

In eukaryotes the tricarboxylic acid is confined to the mitochondria.

Princeton University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

The aquifer condition of this unit is confined/semi-confined.

Applied Water Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is confined", ensure the preposition 'to' follows to clearly indicate the boundaries or limits being imposed. For example, "The study is confined to urban areas".

Common error

Avoid using "is confined" when the intended meaning is merely 'related to' or 'associated with'. "Confined" implies a stricter limitation or restriction. If a connection is more general, consider using alternatives like "is related to" or "is associated with".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is confined" functions as a passive verb phrase, indicating a state of limitation or restriction. This is consistent with Ludwig AI's assessment. It's used to describe a subject that is kept within certain boundaries or conditions, as demonstrated in the examples provided.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

34%

News & Media

32%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is confined" is a grammatically correct and commonly used passive verb phrase that indicates a state of restriction or limitation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it clearly describes a subject being kept within specific boundaries. Its frequent appearance in news, scientific, and encyclopedia sources, as well as academic writings, highlights its versatility and formality. To ensure correct usage, remember to specify the boundaries using the preposition "to". When writing, be mindful of its strict connotation of limitation and avoid using it when a weaker connection is intended. Alternative phrases like "is limited" or "is restricted" may be more appropriate in some contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is restricted

Emphasizes a limitation imposed on something, often by external rules or conditions.

is limited

Highlights the finite or bounded nature of something.

is constrained

Suggests a restriction due to specific circumstances or forces.

is contained

Focuses on the act of holding something within boundaries.

is enclosed

Implies being surrounded or shut in.

is circumscribed

Indicates a precise definition of limits or boundaries.

is restrained

Suggests being held back or controlled.

is incarcerated

Specifically refers to being imprisoned or held in custody.

is consigned

Suggests something being irrevocably assigned to a specific fate or location.

is tethered

Implies being bound or connected to something else, limiting movement.

FAQs

How do I use "is confined" in a sentence?

Use "is confined" to indicate that something is limited or restricted to a specific area, group, or set of conditions. For example, "Access is confined to authorized personnel".

What can I say instead of "is confined"?

You can use alternatives like "is restricted", "is limited", or "is contained" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "is confined to" and "is limited to"?

"Is confined to" often suggests a stricter or more physical restriction than "is limited to". "Confined" can imply being physically enclosed, while "limited" suggests a boundary or restriction in scope or quantity.

When should I use "is confined" instead of "is restricted"?

Use "is confined" when emphasizing the act of keeping something within specific boundaries. Use "is restricted" when emphasizing the imposition of rules or limitations.