is described by

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is described by" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when explaining or defining something in relation to its characteristics or attributes as outlined by a source or authority. Example: "The phenomenon is described by the laws of physics that govern motion and energy."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Each chip is described by a polygon.

Harvard University

This is described by another lemma.

Economic Modelling

Satisfactory progress is described by the GSD Registrar.

Harvard University

Adsorption is described by the Freundlich isotherm.

Journal of Contaminant Hydrology

He is described, by friend and foe alike, as tenacious.

The New York Times

The phenomenon is described by Gibson-Light as "punitive frugality".

The Guardian

This aggregate is described by a balance sheet.

Britannica

He is described by many as a pragmatist.

The Guardian

The death of Aeneas is described by Dionysius of Halicarnassus.

Britannica

This intensity distribution is described by the quantity.

Nature

Mr. Figueroa is described by prosecutors as an enforcer.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is described by" to introduce a definition, formula, or principle that explains the subject under discussion.

Common error

Avoid using "is described by" when the description is subjective or not widely accepted. Ensure the description is based on evidence or authoritative sources rather than personal opinion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is described by" functions as a passive construction used to attribute a description, definition, or set of characteristics to a subject. This structure allows for highlighting the descriptive elements and their relationship to the subject. The Ludwig AI analysis supports its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

54%

News & Media

23%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "is described by" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to provide characterizations or definitions of a subject. It commonly appears in academic, scientific, and news contexts, reflecting a formal to neutral register. Alternatives such as "is defined by" or "is characterized by" can be used to add nuance. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and frequent usage, emphasizing its role in enhancing clarity and detail when explaining a subject's attributes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is characterized by

Focuses on key traits or features that define the subject.

is defined by

Emphasizes a formal or explicit definition of the subject.

is portrayed by

Highlights a representation or depiction of the subject, often in art or literature.

is represented by

Indicates a symbolic or abstract representation of the subject.

is governed by

Suggests that rules, principles or laws determine the behavior or nature of the subject.

is determined by

Highlights the factors that influence or dictate the subject.

is expressed through

Focuses on how the subject manifests or communicates itself.

is elucidated by

Emphasizes the clarification or explanation of the subject.

is illustrated by

Highlights a visual or concrete example that clarifies the subject.

is known as

Highlights a generally accepted or common name or description for the subject.

FAQs

How can I use "is described by" in a sentence?

Use "is described by" to explain something's qualities, characteristics, or the way it functions, referencing a specific source or method. For example, "The phenomenon "is described by the laws of physics"".

What are some alternatives to "is described by"?

You can use alternatives like "is defined by", "is characterized by", or "is represented by", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "is described by"?

Yes, the phrase "is described by" is grammatically correct and widely used in English to indicate that something is being explained or characterized by something else.

What is the difference between "is described by" and "is explained by"?

"Is described by" focuses on the qualities or attributes used to characterize something, while "is explained by" focuses on the reasons or mechanisms that account for something's existence or behavior.