should be read

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "should be read" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to suggest that a particular text should be read in order to learn more about a topic. For example, "The latest research on quantum physics should be read in order to better understand the subject."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It should be read everywhere.

The New Yorker

Roberts' piece should be read in full.

The New York Times

They should be read all the same.

The Economist

But it should be read.

The Guardian - Books

It should be read by us all.

The Economist

Blair's argument should be read in full.

The New Yorker

Great poetry should be read aloud.

The Guardian - Books

Silence should be read as embarrassment.

The Guardian - Business

It should be read, analyzed and debated.

The New York Times - Books

These letters should be read in full.

The New York Times - Arts

The books should be read side by side.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When recommending a text, specify why it "should be read". Provide context on the importance or relevance of the material to enhance the recommendation's impact.

Common error

Avoid stating that something "should be read" without providing a clear reason or context. Ensure your recommendation is supported by a compelling argument about the material's value or relevance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "should be read" functions primarily as a means of recommending or suggesting that a text be read. It utilizes the modal verb 'should' to express obligation or advisability in the passive voice, focusing attention on the text itself.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

42%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Academia

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "should be read" is a versatile phrase used to recommend or emphasize the importance of reading a particular text. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used across diverse contexts like news, science, and books. The contexts demonstrate a register ranging from neutral to formal, with authoritative sources such as The Guardian, The New York Times and The Economist frequently employing it. To enhance your writing, remember to provide clear justification for why something "should be read", avoiding vague recommendations. By understanding its function, purpose, and register, you can effectively use "should be read" to communicate the value and relevance of various texts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is essential reading

Emphasizes the critical importance of reading the material.

is recommended reading

Formally suggests the material as something beneficial or necessary to read.

ought to be perused

Replaces "should" with "ought to", adding a slightly more formal tone and "read" with "perused" emphasizes careful reading.

is worth reading

Highlights the value and benefit of reading the material.

needs to be examined

Shifts the focus from reading to a more analytical examination of the material.

merits a reading

Suggests that the material deserves to be read, emphasizing its quality or importance.

must be consulted

Emphasizes the necessity of referring to the material for information or guidance.

requires review

Suggests a formal or official examination of the material.

warrants attention

Shifts the focus from the act of reading to the importance of paying attention to the material.

demands scrutiny

Highlights the need for careful and critical examination.

FAQs

How can I use "should be read" in a sentence?

Use "should be read" to recommend or emphasize the importance of reading a particular text. For example, "This book "should be read" by anyone interested in history".

What are some alternatives to "should be read"?

Alternatives include "is worth reading", "needs to be examined", or "is essential reading", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use active or passive voice with "should be read"?

While "should be read" is in the passive voice, it's often appropriate when the focus is on the material itself rather than the reader. However, consider using the active voice (e.g., "you should read") when emphasizing the reader's action.

How does the tone of "should be read" compare to "must be read"?

"Should be read" suggests a recommendation or strong suggestion, while "must be read" implies a higher degree of necessity or obligation. Choose the phrase that best fits the level of importance you wish to convey.