is strained by

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is strained by" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where something is under pressure or difficulty due to external factors. Example: "The project is strained by a lack of resources and tight deadlines."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

Yangon, where Mr. Sjogren is moving with his family, is strained by the influx of foreigners.

The New York Times

Its feeble economy is strained by 100,000 newly arrived Ivorians.

The Economist

The marriage of a professional couple is strained by their having to live a continent apart.

The New York Times - Books

But everyone's schedule (and patience) is strained by the 18-year-old Josh (Daniel Everidge), who is severely autistic.

The New York Times

Lottie is timid about mentioning her delicate health, which is strained by all the running about they do.

The New Yorker

Your sympathy for the incarcerated does you credit, even if it is strained by those who've committed particularly heinous acts.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

But several disclosures indicate that their relationship is being strained by the tire recall.

The New York Times

But these advances have been strained by this year's surge.

The New York Times

Their safety nets are strained by newly unemployed people unfamiliar with the world of social services.

The New York Times

Relations with Japan were strained by old kidnappings and new suspicions of spying.

The New York Times

China-Australia relations have already been strained by a series of recent diplomatic controversies.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is strained by", ensure the subject is clearly defined and the cause of the strain is explicitly stated to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of "The system is strained", write "The system is strained by the increased user load."

Common error

Avoid using "is strained by" excessively in passive constructions. Active voice often provides a more direct and engaging writing style. For example, instead of "The budget is strained by unexpected expenses", consider "Unexpected expenses strain the budget."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is strained by" functions as a passive construction, indicating that the subject is experiencing pressure or difficulty as a result of an external factor. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

23%

Wiki

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is strained by" is a grammatically sound and commonly used passive construction that describes a state of pressure or difficulty. As Ludwig AI states, this expression is correct and usable in written English. While it can be used in various contexts, it is most frequently found in news, scientific, and wiki sources. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by explicitly stating the cause of the strain. Alternatives such as "is burdened by" or "is pressured by" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Be mindful of overusing passive voice and consider active voice constructions for a more direct writing style.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is burdened by

Implies a heavy load or obligation is causing strain.

is stressed by

Focuses on the emotional or mental pressure experienced.

is pressured by

Highlights the external force or influence creating the strain.

is stretched by

Suggests resources or capabilities are being used to their limit.

is tested by

Implies a challenge or trial is causing the strain.

is affected by

A more general term indicating influence or impact.

is compromised by

Highlights a negative impact on quality or functionality.

is weakened by

Suggests a reduction in strength or resilience.

is undermined by

Implies a gradual erosion of strength or stability.

is challenged by

Focuses on the difficulty or obstacle causing the strain.

FAQs

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

The phrase "is strained by" indicates that something is under pressure or negatively affected by a particular factor. For example, "The relationship "is strained by" constant arguments" or "The economy "is strained by" high unemployment."

What are some alternatives to "is strained by"?

Alternatives to "is strained by" include phrases like "is burdened by", "is pressured by", or "is affected by", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "is strained by" or an active voice construction?

While "is strained by" is grammatically correct, using an active voice construction can often make your writing more direct and engaging. For example, instead of "The system "is strained by" the new software", you could say "The new software strains the system."

What does "is strained by" imply?

The phrase "is strained by" implies that the subject is experiencing difficulty or pressure due to the influence of something else. It suggests that the subject's normal functioning or condition is being negatively impacted.