is under attack

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is under attack" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where something is being threatened, harmed, or criticized, often in a metaphorical or literal sense. Example: "The city's infrastructure is under attack from severe weather conditions, leading to widespread damage."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Zliten is under attack.

The Economist

"Civilisation itself" is under attack.

The Economist

Globalisation is under attack.

The Guardian - Business

"Our game is under attack," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

I mean, family planning is under attack.

The New Yorker

Its leaders say it is under attack.

The New York Times

A cosy club is under attack.

The Economist

But that margin is under attack".

The New York Times

And Germany is under attack elsewhere.

The Economist

Now it is under attack from speculators.

The Economist

"Ask yourselves why it is under attack?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is under attack" to describe situations where something is directly and forcefully challenged or threatened, whether literally or metaphorically. For instance, "the city was under attack" (literal) or "his reputation is under attack" (metaphorical).

Common error

Avoid using "is under attack" excessively in passive voice constructions where an active voice would be more direct and impactful. For example, instead of "the proposal is under attack by critics", consider "critics are attacking the proposal".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is under attack" functions as a predicative expression, indicating that the subject is the target of harmful or hostile actions. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is under attack" is a versatile expression used to describe a situation where something is facing forceful opposition or threat. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in News & Media. While alternatives like "is being threatened" or "is facing assault" exist, "is under attack" effectively conveys a sense of urgency. Its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts. To avoid overuse, consider employing active voice constructions for more direct impact. Overall, "is under attack" is a powerful and common way to highlight vulnerability and imminent danger.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is being threatened

This alternative suggests a potential danger or harm, which is less immediate than an actual attack.

is facing assault

Implies a more forceful and direct confrontation than "is under attack".

is in the crosshairs

Indicates being the target of criticism or attack.

is being challenged

Suggests a contest or dispute, not necessarily involving physical harm.

is being besieged

Suggests being surrounded and pressured, often in a prolonged manner.

is in jeopardy

Emphasizes a serious risk of failure or loss.

is at risk

Indicates a possibility of danger or negative consequences.

is in danger

Similar to "is at risk", highlighting a state of peril.

is being undermined

Indicates a gradual weakening or erosion of something's foundation or strength.

is facing opposition

Highlights resistance or disagreement, potentially hindering progress.

FAQs

What does "is under attack" mean?

The phrase "is under attack" means that something or someone is being actively and forcefully threatened, either literally through physical assault or metaphorically through criticism or opposition.

What can I say instead of "is under attack"?

You can use alternatives like "is being threatened", "is facing assault", or "is being challenged" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "is being attacked" instead of "is under attack"?

Yes, "is being attacked" is a grammatically correct and often interchangeable alternative to "is under attack". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How formal is the phrase "is under attack"?

The phrase "is under attack" is generally considered neutral in formality and can be used in a variety of contexts, from news reports to casual conversation.