they are seconded

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they are seconded" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in formal contexts, such as meetings or discussions, to indicate that a proposal or motion has received support from another person. Example: "The motion to extend the deadline was proposed by Sarah, and it was seconded by John."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

'Once they are seconded the MoD loses any control over what they get up to'.

Vice

A British official noted that, "once they are seconded, the MoD loses any control over what they get up to".

Vice

A British official noted that "once they are seconded the MoD loses any control over what they get up to".

Vice

Does the national malpractice insurance that covered them as national civil servants still apply when they are seconded or transferred to the employ of local governments?

Human Resources for Health

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Now they are second.

The New York Times - Sports

"They are second-class citizens.

The New York Times

They are first-time restaurateurs.

The New York Times

They are, first and foremost, fantasies.

Independent

They are fourth in the West.

The New York Times

Then they were fourth, now they are first.

Independent

"They are first rate financial engineers.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "they are seconded", ensure the context clearly indicates who 'they' refers to and to which organization or role they are being temporarily assigned. The phrase is most appropriate in formal or professional settings.

Common error

Avoid using "they are seconded" without clearly establishing who "they" refers to. Ambiguity can confuse the reader and weaken your message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they are seconded" functions as a passive construction, indicating that a group of people are being temporarily assigned or transferred to another role or organization. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through various examples in news and professional writing.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "they are seconded" is a grammatically sound and usable expression that describes the temporary assignment of a group of people. Ludwig AI analysis indicates that it is most frequently found in news and media contexts. While considered correct, its formal tone makes it best suited for professional or official communications. Alternatives include phrases like "temporarily assigned" or "detailed to", depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they are temporarily assigned

Replaces "seconded" with a more explicit description of temporary assignment.

they are temporarily transferred

Similar to 'assigned', but emphasizes a shift in location or duty.

they are on loan

Informal way to express temporary assignment, suggesting a return is expected.

they are detailed to

More formal and specific, often used in military or government contexts.

they are dispatched

Suggests they were sent somewhere for specific mission.

they are delegated

Focuses on the transfer of responsibility or authority.

they are attached

Implies they are joined to a unit or team, possibly temporarily.

they are lent

Like 'on loan', but slightly more formal.

their services are given

Emphasizes that the services are provided.

they are reassigned

Implies a change in assignment, possibly temporary.

FAQs

What does "they are seconded" mean?

The phrase "they are seconded" means that a group of people are temporarily assigned to another position or duty, often within a different organization. It implies a formal agreement for their temporary transfer.

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

It's appropriate to use "they are seconded" in formal or professional contexts, such as government, military, or corporate environments, when describing the temporary assignment of individuals to another entity. Consider alternatives like "temporarily assigned" or "on loan" for less formal settings.

What are some alternatives to "they are seconded"?

Alternatives include "temporarily assigned", "on loan", "detailed to", or "temporarily transferred". The best choice depends on the specific context and level of formality.

Is "they are seconded" grammatically correct?

Yes, "they are seconded" is grammatically correct. It uses the passive voice to indicate that a group is receiving the action of being seconded. However, ensure the context is clear to avoid ambiguity.