to be approached

USAGE SUMMARY

"to be approached" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is usually used to express the idea of someone making an effort to connect with someone else (such as in a conversation or through a proposal). For example: When I asked for help on the project, he cautiously agreed to be approached.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

These people need to be approached.

The Economist

These horrors had to be approached obliquely.

The New Yorker

You're going to be approached by every girl.

The New York Times

"Some people you sense don't want to be approached".

The New York Times

Now he waits to be approached before offering advice.

The New York Times - Sports

It was unusual for a woman to be approached in that much described, time-honored way.

The New Yorker

"This is a good cause so I was happy to be approached to give my support".

Independent

In songs suffused with need and vulnerability, the music leaves itself open, waiting to be approached.

The New York Times - Arts

So I think CarMD has to be approached like a real M.D.

The New York Times

The idea is as old as rain, but needs to be approached afresh.

The New York Times

"But I was lucky enough to be approached and I feel honoured".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to be approached", consider the context and ensure that it accurately reflects the intended meaning. For instance, in formal settings, it might imply a request for permission or assistance, while in social contexts, it could mean someone is open to conversation or interaction.

Common error

Avoid using "to be approached" in highly informal contexts where a more casual term like "talked to" or "hit up" would be more appropriate. The phrase carries a certain level of formality that might sound stilted in casual conversation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to be approached" primarily functions as a passive infinitive verb phrase. It indicates that someone or something is the recipient of an action, rather than the initiator. Ludwig AI confirms this usage with numerous examples where the subject is acted upon, such as "he waits to be approached before offering advice."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to be approached" is a common and grammatically sound passive verb phrase used to describe a state of being available or open to interaction. Ludwig AI, along with numerous real-world examples, highlights its frequent use in news, scientific and professional contexts. Although generally neutral in register, its usage should be tailored to the specific context to ensure it doesn't sound overly formal in casual conversations. When seeking alternatives, consider phrases like "to be contacted" or "to be engaged with", but be mindful of the subtle differences in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be contacted

Focuses specifically on making contact, implying a direct communication rather than a general approach.

to be reached out to

Emphasizes the effort made to connect with someone, often implying a helpful or supportive intention.

to be engaged with

Highlights active participation and interaction, suggesting a more involved relationship.

to be presented with

Indicates an opportunity or proposal is being offered, shifting the focus to the offering rather than the approach.

to be consulted

Implies seeking advice or expertise, framing the interaction as a formal request for guidance.

to be solicited

Suggests a request for something, often money or support, making the approach more transactional.

to be introduced to

Focuses on the act of making someone known to another, rather than the broader concept of approaching.

to be met with

Indicates encountering something, often a reaction or obstacle, changing the focus from initiation to response.

to be confronted with

Suggests a challenging or hostile interaction, adding a negative connotation.

to be accosted

Implies an aggressive or unwelcome approach, introducing a negative and potentially threatening element.

FAQs

How can I use "to be approached" in a sentence?

The phrase "to be approached" is used to indicate a passive action of someone initiating contact or engagement. For example, "The manager is available "to be approached" for questions" or "The problem has "to be approached" with caution".

What are some alternatives to "to be approached"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "to be contacted", "to be reached out to", or "to be engaged with". These phrases convey similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis.

Is it correct to say "I expect to be approached"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct, but the nuance conveys a sense of anticipation or even entitlement. A more neutral phrasing might be "I anticipate "being contacted"" or "I expect "to receive an inquiry"".

What's the difference between "to be approached" and "to approach"?

"To approach" indicates an active action of initiating contact, while "to be approached" signifies a passive state of receiving an approach. For example, "He decided "to approach" the CEO" versus "He was surprised "to be approached" by the CEO".