just appropriated

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "just appropriated" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something has been taken or used, often without permission or in a way that is not entirely appropriate, typically in discussions about culture, art, or resources. Example: "The artist just appropriated elements from traditional indigenous designs in her latest work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Has this guy found his voice, or has he just appropriated one?

The New York Times - Books

He was rather a non-political young man and has maybe been won over to the Nazis, or maybe they just appropriated his invention.

The New Yorker

"Anything to which a fancy was taken, from a scarab to an obelisk, was just appropriated, and if there was a difference of opinion with a brother excavator one laid for him with a gun".

The New Yorker

After all, we might well argue, the Christians just appropriated an age-old celebration of surviving the depths of midwinter and the longer days ahead, and made out it was Jesus's birthday.

The Guardian - Music

He argued with the woman who would have preferred a statue of Aurelia Green, the South Bronx assemblywoman — because from what he knew Aurelia Green had just appropriated a baby grand piano from the local school board and moved it into her living room, and, by comparison with Green, Corey considered himself a model citizen.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

At the Old Vic we are just appropriating it, as others have done.

The Guardian

I was just appropriating the imagery as a vehicle for wish-fulfilment.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

In other words, foreign direct investment involves implanting intellectual capital, not just appropriating financial capital.

The New Yorker

But whatever the reason, the days of Congress just appropriating more money for Amtrak may be finished -- as may Amtrak itself.

The New York Times

Modern hoaxers like Jones (who has also been at it for far longer than two years) are just appropriating cutting-edge tech tools to plough a very old furrow.

TechCrunch

Not like Prince, who just appropriates images".

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "just appropriated" when you want to emphasize that the action was recent, and possibly unexpected or inappropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "just appropriated" as a blanket term without providing specific context. Clearly explain what was appropriated and from whom to avoid ambiguity and potential misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "just appropriated" primarily functions as a verb phrase, indicating an action that has recently occurred. As supported by Ludwig's examples, it suggests that someone has taken or used something, often without permission or in a way that may be considered unethical or inappropriate.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "just appropriated" is a verb phrase used to describe a recent act of taking or using something, often without permission or in an unethical manner. Ludwig AI confirms that this expression is grammatically correct, although relatively rare in occurrence. Its primary function is to convey disapproval or criticism, often within news and media contexts. When using this phrase, it's essential to provide clear context to avoid ambiguity and ensure the ethical implications are carefully considered. Alternatives like "plainly adopted" or "completely hijacked" may be more appropriate depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

just plagiarized

Specifically refers to the act of taking someone else's work or ideas and passing them off as one's own.

completely hijacked

Emphasizes the element of unauthorized control or redirection.

outright stole

Emphasizes the act of theft, often implying a lack of creativity or originality.

simply expropriated

Emphasizes the act of taking something, often property or rights, without necessarily implying creativity or imitation.

only co-opted

Focuses on adopting something for one's own benefit, often without regard for the original context or intent.

plainly adopted

Focuses on the act of taking something and making it one's own, without necessarily implying wrongdoing.

only seized

Stresses the forceful taking of something, often implying control or power.

basically imitated

Focuses on copying something, often without adding significant original contribution.

merely assumed

Highlights the act of taking on something, like a role or responsibility, without proper authorization.

directly borrowed

Highlights the act of taking something from another source, often without acknowledgment.

FAQs

How can I use "just appropriated" in a sentence?

You can use "just appropriated" to describe the act of taking or using something, often without permission or in an inappropriate way. For example, "The company was criticized for having "just appropriated" designs from independent artists".

What is a more formal way to say "just appropriated"?

In more formal contexts, you could use phrases like "recently expropriated", "unlawfully seized", or "improperly adopted" instead of "just appropriated".

Is "just appropriated" a negative term?

Yes, "just appropriated" generally carries a negative connotation, implying that something has been taken or used unfairly or without proper authorization. Context is important.

What's the difference between "just appropriated" and "just borrowed"?

"Just appropriated" implies a taking that is possibly unethical or unauthorized, while "just borrowed" suggests a temporary use with the intent to return, usually with permission.