is pointed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is pointed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is directed or aimed at a specific target or subject. Example: "The criticism in her speech is pointed, addressing the issues directly without any ambiguity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

One is pointed at Masseeh Hall (W1), and one is pointed at Harvard Bridge.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The tail is pointed.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The intro is pointed.

The Guardian - Business

He smiles when this is pointed out.

The New York Times

The Vickers Vimy is pointed into the gale.

The New Yorker

Just hopefully the arrow is pointed up".

The New York Times

Its relationship with the distributed environment modeling is pointed out.

Engineering Applications of Artificial Intelligence

The need of experimental validation is pointed out.

Nuclear Engineering and Design

"The Edge of Objectivity" is pointed, opinionated, and selective.

Stanford University

The waist is pointed in front and back.

Yale University

It is pointed directly at Maseeh Hall (W1).

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is pointed", ensure the subject and object are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For instance, specify what is doing the pointing and what it is pointing at.

Common error

Avoid using "is pointed" when an active voice construction would be clearer and more direct. Overuse of the passive voice can make your writing sound vague or weak.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is pointed" primarily functions as a passive verb construction. Ludwig AI indicates its role in describing direction, orientation, or focus, as evidenced by examples like "The arrow is pointed up" and "The Missouri is pointed right at the Arizona Memorial".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is pointed" is a versatile passive construction used to indicate direction, focus, or emphasis. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely applicable across various contexts, from news and media to scientific and academic writing. While generally neutral in register, it's important to ensure clarity and avoid overuse of the passive voice for more direct and impactful writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is directed

Focuses on the act of directing something towards a specific target or direction.

is aimed

Emphasizes the intention or purpose behind the direction.

is focused

Highlights the concentration of attention or resources on a particular area.

is targeted

Suggests a specific target or goal.

is oriented

Implies alignment or positioning in a particular direction.

is geared

Indicates preparation or adaptation for a specific purpose.

is inclined

Suggests a tendency or leaning in a certain direction.

is predisposed

Implies a prior inclination or tendency.

is turned

Focuses on the physical act of turning something towards a direction.

is angled

Highlights the specific angle or inclination.

FAQs

How to use "is pointed" in a sentence?

"Is pointed" is used to indicate direction, focus, or emphasis. For example, "The arrow is pointed towards the target", or "The criticism is pointed and direct".

What can I say instead of "is pointed"?

Alternatives include "is directed", "is aimed", or "is focused" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "is pointed at" or "is pointed to"?

"Is pointed at" is typically used when indicating a direction towards something physical. "Is pointed to" can be used in more abstract contexts, like pointing to a solution or a reason.

What is the difference between "is pointed" and "is aimed"?

"Is aimed" often suggests intention or purpose, while "is pointed" simply indicates direction or orientation. For example, a gun "is aimed" at a target, while a compass needle "is pointed" north.