it is governed by

USAGE SUMMARY

"it is governed by" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
This phrase is typically used to describe the controlling or influencing factor or force in a particular situation. It can also be used to indicate the rules, regulations, or laws that apply to something. Example: The country's economy is governed by a series of policies and regulations.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But our interest in China lies also in its politics: it is governed by a system that is out of step with global norms.

The Economist

"Iraq cannot be unified until it is governed by its people," Mr. Abbas told 1,000 people in the compound this afternoon before midday prayers.

The New York Times

The NAS is composed of roughly 2,100 scientists; its membership is determined by scientists and it is governed by scientists.

Huffington Post

It is governed by market forces.

The New York Times - Sports

It is governed by self-interest.

The Economist

It is governed by the religious leadership.

The New York Times

It is governed by mutual understanding rather than by constitutions or treaties.

The New Yorker

It is governed by the General Council, which comprises lawyers and judges.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It is governed by the Sheiks Councill, and the Council is governed by Abdullah as-Salim.

The New Yorker

It is governed by the Sons of Jacob, religious fundamentalists whose rigid new society evokes a Puritan past.

The New Yorker

It is governed by an exquisite array of receptors that can distinguish minute variations in the external environment.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it is governed by", ensure that the subject and governing factor are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For instance, specify what 'it' refers to and which rules or forces are governing it.

Common error

Avoid overuse of passive constructions with "it is governed by". While grammatically correct, excessive use can make your writing sound impersonal and less engaging. Consider rephrasing to highlight the actor or governing entity directly: "The council governs the city" instead of "The city is governed by the council".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is governed by" functions as a predicate in a sentence, indicating the rules, principles, or authorities that control or direct a specific entity or process. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

24%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Huffington Post

3%

The New Yorker

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is governed by" is a versatile and commonly used expression to indicate control, regulation, or influence over a subject. Ludwig AI validates its broad usage across varied sources such as news outlets like The New York Times and The Guardian, scientific journals, and encyclopedic resources. While generally neutral in register, its formality can shift based on context. To enhance writing clarity, writers should specify the governing factors and avoid overusing the passive voice. Related phrases include "it is regulated by" and "it is controlled by", offering nuanced alternatives to express similar concepts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is regulated by

This alternative focuses on the presence of specific rules or laws that control the subject.

it is controlled by

This alternative highlights the act of maintaining power or influence over something.

it is managed by

This suggests a system of administration and oversight.

it is subject to

This indicates that the subject is under the authority or influence of something else.

it is dictated by

This emphasizes that something is determined or commanded by a specific factor.

it is determined by

This alternative emphasizes that something's outcome or nature is decided by another factor.

it is influenced by

This focuses on the impact that something has on the subject, without necessarily implying direct control.

it operates under

This suggests that something functions according to a specific set of guidelines or principles.

it is run by

This emphasizes the administration or operation of something by a particular entity.

it is directed by

This highlights the act of guiding or leading something, implying a sense of purpose or intent.

FAQs

How can I use "it is governed by" in a sentence?

You can use "it is governed by" to explain what controls or influences something. For example, "The company "it is governed by" a strict ethical code" or "The speed of light "it is governed by" the laws of physics".

What are some alternatives to "it is governed by"?

Some alternatives include "it is regulated by", "it is controlled by", or "it is managed by", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use active or passive voice with "it is governed by"?

While "it is governed by" is grammatically correct, using the active voice can often make your writing more direct and engaging. Instead of saying "The project "it is governed by" the committee", you could say "The committee governs the project".

What's the difference between "it is governed by" and "it is influenced by"?

"It is governed by" implies a direct controlling force or set of rules, while "it is influenced by" suggests a more subtle or indirect effect. Governance implies authority and control, whereas influence suggests persuasion or impact.