it is spoken

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is spoken" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a language, dialect, or phrase that is verbally communicated rather than written. Example: "In this region, it is spoken by a small community of native speakers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The author's argument achieves its greatest force when it is spoken or performed.

SEP

And it is spoken in a very dignified, formal way.

The New York Times

"It does not speak... it is spoken," he writes.

The New Yorker

Throughout the world it is spoken by some 20 million more.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Having been preserved in Amazigh enclaves, it is spoken by roughly one-third of the people.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Compared to Hindi, it is spoken faster and is more difficult to decipher.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Semantically, this construction has had and still has some variation, depending on where it is spoken.

Yale University

The word freedom stings like a taunt when it is spoken in this play.

The New York Times

It is spoken principally in the central highlands of the country.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Each word is highlighted when it is spoken on the soundtrack.

The New York Times - Arts

It is spoken by 13 Syrian refugees, all women, none of them professional actors.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is spoken" to refer to languages, dialects, or specific phrases when you want to highlight the act of verbal communication, especially in contrast to written forms.

Common error

Avoid using "it is spoken" when you intend to express actions performed on an object, as this can lead to ambiguity. For example, instead of "the problem it is spoken about", consider "the problem is discussed."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is spoken" typically functions as part of a passive construction. It indicates that a language, word, or concept is communicated verbally. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its usage in diverse contexts, reaffirming its grammatical correctness as indicated by the Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is spoken" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to indicate that something is verbally communicated. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's commonly found in various contexts, including news, encyclopedias, and academic sources. While alternatives like "it is said" or "it is uttered" exist, "it is spoken" specifically emphasizes the act of verbal expression. When using the phrase, ensure clarity to avoid confusion with other passive voice constructions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is uttered

Focuses on the act of saying something aloud, similar to 'spoken' but emphasizes the physical act of speaking.

it is voiced

Emphasizes the expression of something, making it audible or known through speech.

it is expressed orally

Highlights the oral form of communication, emphasizing the difference from written communication.

it is communicated verbally

Focuses on the act of conveying information through spoken words.

it is said

A simpler and more general way to indicate that something is mentioned or reported.

it is articulated

Emphasizes the clarity and precision with which something is spoken.

it is proclaimed

Suggests a formal or public declaration of something.

it is delivered

Implies a more formal or structured way of speaking, like a speech or presentation.

it is narrated

Used when referring to a story or account that is being told.

it is chatted about

Indicates a casual and informal conversation.

FAQs

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

The phrase "it is spoken" is used to describe a language, dialect, or idea that is verbally communicated. For example: "In this region, "it is spoken" by a small community of native speakers."

What are some alternatives to "it is spoken"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "it is said", "it is uttered", or "it is voiced" as alternatives.

Is it correct to say "it is spoken about"?

While grammatically correct, "it is spoken about" can sometimes sound awkward. Consider using a more direct phrase like "it is discussed" or "it is mentioned" for better clarity.

What's the difference between "it is spoken" and "it is written"?

"It is spoken" refers to verbal communication, while "it is written" refers to communication through text. For example: "While English is the official language, "it is spoken" by a small percentage of the population, while "it is written" and understood more widely."