this is to be

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this is to be" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a future intention or expectation regarding something that is about to happen or be done. Example: "This is to be the final decision on the matter, and no further changes will be accepted."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

This is to be commended.

Independent

This is to be your home.

The New Yorker

But all this is to be discovered.

Independent

So this is to be forbidden?

Independent

Perhaps this is to be expected.

The New York Times - Arts

So this is to be expected.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

This was to be expected.

The New York Times - Sports

This was to be a family decision.

The New York Times - Magazine

This was to be followed by….

The New Yorker

All this was to be systematic activity.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This was to be the new Chelsea.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this is to be" when expressing a formal intention or expectation, particularly in writing. For instance, "This is to be a confidential document, not to be shared without prior authorization."

Common error

Avoid using "this is to be" in casual conversations or informal writing where simpler alternatives like "this will be" or "this is going to be" are more appropriate. Overusing formal language can make your communication sound stilted or unnatural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this is to be" functions as a way to express future intention, arrangement, or expectation. Ludwig provides examples demonstrating its use in formal announcements and planned actions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Academia

20%

Science

12%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "this is to be" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to indicate future intention, expectation, or arrangement. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides numerous real-world examples across diverse contexts, ranging from news articles to academic papers. While versatile, it is most appropriate for formal or official communication. For casual contexts, simpler alternatives such as "this will be" or "this is going to be" may be more suitable. Its consistent use in authoritative sources underscores its reliability in formal writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this will be

Uses a different auxiliary verb to express future tense, maintaining a similar sense of prediction or planned action.

this is going to be

Emphasizes the imminence or certainty of a future event or state, adding a slightly more informal tone.

this should be

Expresses an expectation or recommendation, suggesting a desired outcome or plan.

this is intended to be

Highlights the purpose or design behind something, focusing on the planned function or result.

this is slated to be

Indicates that something is officially scheduled or planned to happen at a specific time.

this is expected to be

Focuses on the anticipated outcome based on current conditions or trends.

this is destined to be

Implies a sense of fate or inevitability, suggesting that something is predetermined.

this is meant to be

Conveys a sense of purpose or design, suggesting that something is intended or appropriate.

it is hereby declared that

Presents a formal declaration or announcement, often used in official or legal contexts.

the intention is for this to be

Explicitly states the intention behind an action or plan, emphasizing the desired outcome.

FAQs

What is the difference between "this is to be" and "this will be"?

"This is to be" suggests a formal intention, plan, or arrangement. "This will be"/"this is going to be" is a general statement of future fact or prediction. The former often implies an official or pre-determined nature, while the latter is a more neutral expression.

When is it appropriate to use "this is to be"?

Use "this is to be" in formal contexts where you want to emphasize an official intention or plan. Examples include formal announcements, written instructions, or legal documents.

Can I use "this is to be" in spoken English?

While grammatically correct, "this is to be" is less common in spoken English than alternatives like "this will be" or "this is going to be". Consider your audience and the level of formality when deciding whether to use it.

What are some alternatives to "this is to be"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "this will be", "this is going to be", "this should be", or "this is intended to be". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.