they are shown

USAGE SUMMARY

"they are shown" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe what a person or group is being told, or what is being done to them. For example, "The students were shown a demonstration of the new software."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They are shown mixed and matched.

The New York Times

They are shown in real time.

University of California, Berkeley

They are shown to give identical results.

International Journal of Solids and Structures

For the most part they are shown without human figures.

The New York Times - Arts

Somewhat radically, they are shown with pubic hair.

The Guardian - Arts

They are shown wearing sleeveless summer dresses and matching loafers.

The New Yorker

"They are shown exactly as they are, tired and breathless.

The New Yorker

They are shown on Wyoming's Exhibit No. 149.

Cornell University

They are shown on Wyoming's Exhibit No. 150.

Cornell University

But then they are shown the case detection data.

The Guardian

They are shown like kids in the playroom.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "they are shown" to clearly indicate that something is being visually presented or demonstrated. This phrase is versatile and fits well in both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

While "they are shown" is grammatically correct, overuse can lead to passive voice. Consider active voice alternatives if appropriate for a more direct and engaging style. For example, instead of "They are shown the data", try "The data is shown to them".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they are shown" functions as a passive construction indicating that a group is the recipient of a visual presentation or demonstration. As Ludwig AI suggests, this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

35%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "they are shown" is a grammatically sound and widely used expression to denote that a group is being presented with visual information or a demonstration. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's correct and applicable across various writing styles. The frequency analysis shows its prevalence in news, scientific, and academic contexts. While generally neutral in register, writers should be mindful of potential passive voice overuse. Consider alternatives like "they are displayed" or "they are presented" for varied expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they are displayed

This alternative is very similar, emphasizing the act of presenting something visually.

they are presented

This phrase focuses on the act of formally introducing or offering something.

they are exhibited

This alternative suggests a more formal or public display, such as in a museum or gallery.

they are illustrated

This phrase implies the use of visual aids to clarify or explain something.

they are demonstrated

This alternative emphasizes the act of proving or explaining something through practical example.

they are featured

This phrase highlights the prominence or importance of what is being displayed.

they are revealed

This suggests something previously hidden is now being made visible.

they are portrayed

This alternative focuses on how something is depicted or represented.

they are depicted

Similar to "portrayed", this highlights the manner in which something is visually represented.

they are made visible

This alternative directly emphasizes the act of making something able to be seen.

FAQs

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

The phrase "they are shown" indicates that something is being displayed or presented to a group. For instance, "They are shown the results of the experiment" or "They are shown how to operate the machine".

What are some alternatives to "they are shown"?

Alternatives include "they are displayed", "they are presented", or "they are exhibited", depending on the specific context.

Is "they are shown" formal or informal?

The phrase "they are shown" is generally neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, the surrounding language will influence the overall tone.

What is the difference between "they are shown" and "they are told"?

"They are shown" implies a visual demonstration or presentation, while "they are told" indicates that information is being conveyed verbally. The choice depends on whether the information is presented visually or orally.