they are detained

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they are detained" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where individuals are being held in custody or confinement, often by law enforcement or authorities. Example: "The suspects are detained while the investigation is ongoing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

"If they are detained, they claim they are just ordinary citizens," he said.

The New York Times

"They're often released as violently as they are detained," Ryan said.

The New Yorker

They are detained at the security compound of the Air Force intelligence.

The Guardian

Some children have been born in the UK and are settled in a school here when they are detained.

The Guardian

Now they are detained until they can be deported, while Mexicans are sent straight back to Mexico.Less effort has been made to punish firms that employ illegals.

The Economist

They have been trying to adapt to the life of freedom here, but it is difficult, because they unconsciously still feel they are detained.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

There, they are detaining you.

The New York Times

"Not only are they not freeing him, but they are detaining his family members too".

The New York Times

"The police have been entirely civil with us, but they are detaining us nonetheless".

The Guardian

You should use that exact language: "Am I being detained?" Police must tell you whether they are detaining you.

WikiHow

They were detained in March.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "they are detained" when referring to a formal holding or confinement by authorities. Ensure the context clearly indicates who "they" refers to.

Common error

Ensure clarity by specifying the authority or reason for detention. Avoid vague statements like "they are detained" without providing context, as it can lead to confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they are detained" functions as a declarative statement indicating that a group of individuals is being held in custody. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "they are detained" is a grammatically correct and widely used expression to indicate that a group of individuals is being held in custody by authorities. Ludwig AI confirms this, highlighting its frequent appearance in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the detaining authority and reason. Alternatives like "they are held in custody" or "they are under arrest" can be used depending on the specific context. Remember that "they are detained" generally carries a formal and official tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they are being detained

Highlights the ongoing process of detention.

they are in detention

Indicates the state of being held in detention.

they are being held

Emphasizes the act of holding someone.

they are held in custody

Emphasizes legal control and supervision.

they are kept in detention

Highlights the state of being held for a specified period.

they are in confinement

Focuses on the physical restriction and isolation.

they are incarcerated

Implies imprisonment as a formal punishment.

they are under arrest

Specifically indicates legal apprehension by authorities.

they are apprehended

Focuses on the act of being caught or seized.

they are captured

Focuses on the act of seizing someone after a pursuit.

FAQs

What does "they are detained" mean?

The phrase "they are detained" means that a group of people is being held in custody, typically by law enforcement or other authorities. It implies a temporary restriction of freedom, often pending investigation or further legal action.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "they are detained"?

Use "they are detained" when you want to convey that a group has been taken into custody and is being held by authorities. This is common in news reports, legal contexts, and discussions of law enforcement activities.

What are some alternatives to saying "they are detained"?

Alternatives include "they are held in custody", "they are under arrest", or "they are being held", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "they are detained" more formal than "they are being held"?

Yes, "they are detained" generally carries a more formal and official tone compared to "they are being held". The word "detained" suggests a legal or procedural context, making it suitable for formal reports and news articles.