to be captured

USAGE SUMMARY

"to be captured" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is commonly used in passive sentences, where the object of the verb is the one being acted upon. For example: "The thief was captured by the police." In this sentence, "to be captured" is used to describe what happened to the thief - he was captured. Another example could be: "The beauty of the sunset cannot be captured in words." Here, "to be captured" is used to express that the beauty of the sunset is difficult to describe or put into words. Overall, "to be captured" is a versatile phrase that can be used in various contexts to describe an action or state that is being imposed upon someone or something.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"The ANC refuses to be captured.

The Guardian

"Marketers have found an opportunity that's there to be captured".

The New York Times

He has too much dignity to be captured".

The New York Times

"That information is there to be captured and used.

The New York Times - Science

With or without evidence they have to be captured".

The New York Times

He fled after being wounded, only to be captured Sunday.

The New York Times

"They will not allow Zeinab to be captured twice".

The New York Times

"We expect to be captured as well very soon".

The New York Times

First, regulators tend to be captured by the industry.

The Economist

The Ugandans say he was delighted to be captured.

The Economist

Maximus escapes, only to be captured by slave traders who train him as a gladiator.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to be captured", ensure the context clearly indicates who or what is doing the capturing. Clarity in passive voice constructions is key.

Common error

While "to be captured" is grammatically sound, overuse of the passive voice can make your writing seem weak or unclear. Opt for active voice when possible to add impact and clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to be captured" functions as a passive infinitive verb phrase. It typically appears as part of a larger verb construction, often indicating that the subject is the recipient of the action, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

30%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

3%

Social Media

9%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to be captured" is a frequently used and grammatically sound passive infinitive verb phrase. As Ludwig AI confirms, it describes the state of being seized or caught and is commonly found in news, media, and scientific contexts. While versatile, it's important to consider the potential for overuse of the passive voice and ensure clarity in your writing. Alternative phrases such as "to be apprehended" or "to be seized" can provide nuance depending on the intended meaning. When employing the phrase "to be captured", consider the context and strive for clear, impactful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be caught

A simpler, more general term for being captured.

to be apprehended

Replaces "captured" with a more formal synonym, focusing on legal or official seizure.

to be seized

Emphasizes the act of taking possession forcefully or suddenly.

to be taken into custody

More formal and legalistic phrasing emphasizing control.

to be arrested

Specifically refers to the act of being taken into legal custody.

to be seized upon

Highlights the idea of something being eagerly or opportunistically taken.

to fall into enemy hands

Implies capture by an opposing force, often in a military context.

to be taken prisoner

Focuses on the state of being held captive.

to be ensnared

Suggests a cunning or deceptive method of capture.

to be subjugated

Suggests being brought under control or domination, broader than physical capture.

FAQs

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

You can use "to be captured" to describe someone or something being seized or caught, such as "The fugitive was expected "to be captured" soon" or "The essence of the moment needed "to be captured" in a photograph".

What are some alternatives to "to be captured"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "to be apprehended", "to be seized", or "to be arrested".

Is it better to use active or passive voice with "captured"?

It depends on the focus. Active voice (e.g., "The police captured the suspect") emphasizes the actor, while passive voice (e.g., "The suspect was "to be captured" by the police") emphasizes the recipient of the action.

What's the difference between "to be captured" and "to be caught"?

"To be caught" is a more general term for being found or seized, while "to be captured" often implies a more deliberate or forceful act of taking someone or something.