it is alive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is alive" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is living or has life, often in a metaphorical or literal sense. Example: "After months of work, the project finally came together, and it is alive with creativity and innovation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is alive with its humour, perception, and epigrammatic brilliance.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It is alive, though.

The New York Times

It is alive after all.

Harvard University

It is alive, even now.

The Guardian - Film

Today it is alive again.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is alive and kicking.

The Guardian

It is alive with argument and debate.

The Guardian

And it is alive in New Jersey.

The New York Times

"It is alive today," he said.

The New York Times

"It is alive from snout to tail".

The New York Times - Arts

It is alive, well and growing.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is alive" to add a sense of dynamism or energy to your writing, particularly when describing abstract concepts or processes. It implies more than simple existence; it suggests activity and potential.

Common error

Avoid using "it is alive" too frequently in a metaphorical sense, as it can dilute the impact and make your writing sound cliché. Ensure the context genuinely supports the use of such a strong expression.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is alive" functions primarily as a predicate nominative, describing the state of being of the subject. Ludwig shows this phrase is used to attribute vibrancy or activity, either literally or metaphorically.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Academia

21%

Science

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it is alive" is a versatile expression used to denote existence coupled with activity or dynamism. As Ludwig highlights, its grammatical correctness and common usage across diverse contexts, from News & Media to Academia, solidify its place in the English language. The phrase functions as a predicate nominative, asserting the vitality of a subject, and its communicative purpose is to convey a sense of energy and potential. The neutral register makes it adaptable to various writing styles, although mindful overuse should be avoided to maintain its impact. In essence, "it is alive" is more than just a statement of being; it's a declaration of vibrancy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is living

Replaces 'alive' with 'living', focusing on the state of being in existence.

it is vibrant

Emphasizes the energetic and lively qualities of something.

it is active

Highlights the active or operational status of something.

it is in existence

A more formal way to express the presence or being of something.

it is functioning

Focuses on the operational aspect, implying that something is working as intended.

it is breathing

Suggests a fundamental aspect of life or activity is present.

it is flourishing

Implies that something is thriving and developing positively.

it is pulsating

Conveys a sense of rhythm and energy, like a heartbeat.

it is dynamic

Highlights the changing and evolving nature of something.

it is burgeoning

Suggests a rapid growth or expansion.

FAQs

How can I use "it is alive" in a sentence?

You can use "it is alive" to describe something that is not only existing but also active, dynamic, or vibrant. For example, "The city's art scene is not just surviving; "it is alive" with new talent and innovative ideas."

What is a good alternative to "it is alive"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "it is thriving", "it is vibrant", or "it is active" to convey a similar meaning.

When is it appropriate to use "it is alive" metaphorically?

It's appropriate to use "it is alive" metaphorically when you want to emphasize the energy, dynamism, or potential of something non-living. For instance, "The project may have faced setbacks, but "it is alive" with new possibilities."

What does "it is alive and well" mean?

The phrase "it is alive and well" means that something is not only existing but also in a healthy or flourishing state. It suggests resilience and continued vitality.