they are fixed

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of the sentence "they are fixed" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that cannot be changed or is unlikely to move, e.g. "The schedule of classes for the semester is set and they are fixed."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

They are fixed in pesos not percentages.

The Economist

(They are fixed to the center console).

The New York Times

These things, you assume, are given, they are fixed.

The New York Times - Arts

(PDF) What the two recalls share is Ford's unusual warning that owners stop driving them until they are fixed.

The New York Times

"We have our fairly defined roles within the band and you try and develop within them, but they are fixed.

Independent

Mortgages are generally variable-rate in these countries, whereas they are fixed as a rule in Germany and France.

The Economist

These housing projects, they say, will never be popular, no matter how they are fixed up, in part because people identify them with the Communist past.

The New York Times

"They are fixed on the idea of rolling our salaries back to $17.88 at top -- the passenger-service top rate from 1989-1999," the statement said.

The New York Times

His paintings give quiet moments of everyday life an Egyptian stillness; they are fixed in an eternal present, shorn of superfluous detail, rendered as if carved in stone.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

They surround the posterior part of the box, where they are fixed, thus improving the stabilization.

BioMed Research International

They are fixed wireless services like Internet access, which are delivered by land-based towers -- not satellite Internet service.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "they are fixed", ensure the context clearly indicates what "they" refers to, avoiding ambiguity. For example, "The meeting dates are fixed" is clearer than "They are fixed."

Common error

Avoid using "they are fixed" when referring to something that can be easily changed or adjusted. This creates a false sense of finality or permanence that is not accurate or helpful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they are fixed" functions as a declarative statement, asserting that a particular subject is in a state of being unchangeable or predetermined. Ludwig provides numerous examples confirming its use in various contexts to convey this meaning.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

43%

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "they are fixed" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to convey that something is unchangeable or predetermined. As confirmed by Ludwig, it finds common application in diverse fields like science, news, and business. While versatile, it's essential to ensure clarity regarding what "they" refers to. Consider synonyms like "they are set" or "they are permanent" for nuanced expression. Steer clear of using it for easily adjustable situations to prevent miscommunication. By considering these aspects, writers can effectively employ "they are fixed" in their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they are set

Emphasizes the establishment of something in a particular state, similar to being fixed.

they are unchangeable

Directly states the inability to alter something, mirroring the meaning of being fixed.

they are immutable

A more formal way to express the unchangeable nature of something.

they are established

Highlights the long-term nature and acceptance of something, similar to being fixed in place or time.

they are permanent

Focuses on the enduring quality of something, conveying a sense of being unchangeable.

they are predetermined

Indicates that something has been decided in advance and cannot be altered.

they are static

Emphasizes a lack of movement or change, similar to being fixed.

they are constant

Highlights the consistent and unchanging nature of something.

they are resolute

Implies firmness of purpose or intent, suggesting a fixed decision.

they are secured

Focuses on ensuring something remains firmly in place, preventing movement.

FAQs

How can I use "they are fixed" in a sentence?

Use "they are fixed" to indicate that certain parameters, conditions, or settings are not subject to change. For example, "The prices for the next quarter "they are fixed" and will not fluctuate."

What can I say instead of "they are fixed"?

You can use alternatives like "they are set", "they are established", or "they are permanent" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "they are fixed" in a formal setting?

Yes, "they are fixed" is suitable for formal settings as long as the meaning is clear and the context is appropriate. It indicates a state of immutability or predetermination.

What is the difference between "they are fixed" and "they are finalized"?

"They are fixed" implies a state of unchangeability, whereas "they are finalized" suggests that a process of finalizing has been completed. "They are fixed" focuses on the present state, while "they are finalized" focuses on the action of making something final.