it is to be that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is to be that" is not commonly used in modern written English and may sound awkward or outdated.
It can be used in formal or literary contexts to indicate a future event or condition that is expected to happen. Example: "It is to be that the new policy will take effect next month."

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

Its substance, what it is to be that thing, that without which it does not exist, is its essence.

SEP

And whatever percentage it is, to be that close in a match against a player like Novak, it's encouraging".

The New York Times - Sports

Come on, Kate, just be honest about how hard it is to be that size, don't pretend you are still normal".

Independent

September 14, Studs Terkel: Unless we learn what it is to be that bombed child - whether it be in Vietnam or Iraq - we learn nothing.

The Guardian

I can't imagine how tough it is to be that age, that successful, that in-demand and still remain grounded and cool and human.

The Guardian - Film

I don't think it is interesting to say what it is to be this person or that; but I do believe it is entertaining and perhaps even of value to express how it is to be that person.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

And I think how cool would it be to be that person for awhile.

The New Yorker

It is, to be sure, that.

Vice

It is to be hoped that France is wrong.

The Economist

It is to be hoped that they are right.

The Economist

It is to be hoped that Miller is right.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it is to be that", ensure the context is formal or literary. In contemporary writing, consider using more direct alternatives like "it is expected that" or "it is anticipated that" for improved clarity and readability.

Common error

Avoid using "it is to be that" in informal or conversational contexts. Its formality can sound stilted or unnatural in everyday speech or writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is to be that" functions as a declarative expression, often introducing a statement about a future event or a condition that is considered likely or predetermined. As pointed out by Ludwig AI, while grammatically correct, it sounds archaic.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is to be that" serves to express expectation or destiny with a notably formal tone. Ludwig AI indicates that while grammatically sound, its use is somewhat archaic, suggesting modern alternatives might provide greater clarity. Predominantly found in academic and news contexts, its infrequent usage suggests reserving it for situations where formality and a sense of predetermination are desired. More common alternatives, such as "it is expected that", can often serve the same purpose with greater accessibility for contemporary audiences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is expected that

Replaces the more formal structure with a common expression of expectation.

it is anticipated that

Similar to 'expected', but suggests a more formal anticipation.

it will be the case that

Focuses on the future occurrence of something.

it is destined to be that

Implies a sense of fate or inevitability.

it is fated that

Similar to 'destined', emphasizing fate.

it is foreseen that

Highlights the act of predicting a future event.

it is written that

Suggests that something is predetermined or part of a prophecy.

it is supposed to be that

Implies something is planned or agreed upon.

the intention is that

Emphasizes the purpose or plan behind an action.

the plan is for it to be that

Directly states that something is part of a defined plan.

FAQs

What does "it is to be that" mean?

The phrase "it is to be that" suggests that something is expected to happen or is destined to occur. It often carries a sense of formality or inevitability.

How can I use "it is to be that" in a sentence?

While grammatically correct, consider alternatives like "it is expected that" or "it is anticipated that" for greater clarity in modern writing.

Is "it is to be that" formal or informal?

"It is to be that" leans towards formal usage. In many modern contexts, less formal alternatives may be more appropriate.

What are some alternatives to "it is to be that"?

Alternatives include "it is expected that", "it is anticipated that", or "it will be the case that", depending on the desired nuance.