to be cared for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to be cared for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the need for someone or something to receive attention, support, or nurturing. Example: "The elderly often require special attention to be cared for properly in their later years."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

And they need to be cared for.

The New York Times

"Don't they deserve to be cared for?

The New York Times

And it has to be cared for".

The New York Times

You would expect graves to be cared for, not desecrated".

Independent

How do they have to be cared for?

The New York Times - Health

It's the way we want to be cared for".

The New York Times - Magazine

"So many people are saying they want to be cared for and how to be cared for, that they are not listened to, that they are not heard.

Independent

"But it had a faded old beauty just waiting to be cared for a little bit".

The New York Times

Jacobs sent the two children to be cared for in Wilbur's house.

The New York Times

"We should tell them what is really to be cared for.

The Guardian - Film

"They didn't see paintings as whole objects, which need to be cared for as such".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to be cared for", consider the specific type of care being provided (e.g., medical, emotional, physical) to ensure clarity. If the context requires a more formal tone, consider using "to receive care" instead.

Common error

Avoid using "to be cared for" excessively in contexts where active voice would be more direct and engaging. For instance, instead of "The patient needs to be cared for", try "Caregivers must care for the patient."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to be cared for" functions as a passive infinitive verb phrase. It indicates a state of needing or receiving care. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. Examples in Ludwig show its use in various contexts, from discussing the care of horses to the needs of vulnerable populations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to be cared for" is a grammatically sound and frequently used passive verb phrase that conveys the need for attention, support, and nurturing. Ludwig AI confirms the validity of this phrase and its broad applicability across various contexts. While versatile, it's important to consider the specific type of care being referenced and to avoid overuse of the passive voice. Alternatives like "to receive care" or "to be looked after" may be suitable depending on the desired tone and emphasis. The phrase finds common usage in both scientific and journalistic settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be looked after

Suggests supervision and protection, with a less emotional tone than "to be cared for".

to be tended to

Suggests a more hands-on and immediate form of care, often in a medical or practical context.

to receive attention

Focuses on the act of getting noticed and attended to, rather than the sustained support implied by "cared for".

to be supported

Highlights the provision of assistance and resources, which can be material or emotional, but less personal.

to be nurtured

Implies fostering growth and development, particularly in a more emotional or developmental sense.

to be protected

Emphasizes shielding from harm or danger, with a focus on safety and security.

to be fostered

Implies promoting growth or development, similar to nurtured but can also mean providing a temporary home.

to be watched over

Suggests constant surveillance and oversight, often with a protective intent.

to be accommodated

Focuses on providing space and resources, without necessarily implying emotional support.

to be maintained

Emphasizes upkeep and preservation, often in a physical or operational sense.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "to be cared for" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, you could use phrases like "to receive care" or "to be attended to", depending on the specific context.

What is the difference between "to be cared for" and "to be looked after"?

"To be looked after" generally implies supervision and protection, while "to be cared for" suggests a broader range of support including emotional and physical well-being. In other words, "to be cared for" has a stronger connotation of nurturing.

In what situations is it most appropriate to use "to be cared for"?

It is most appropriate when discussing the need for attention, support, and nurturing, particularly in contexts involving health, well-being, or personal development. Examples include elderly care, childcare, and plant cultivation.

What are some alternatives to "to be cared for" that emphasize protection?

If the focus is on protection, consider using phrases such as "to be protected", "to be safeguarded", or "to be watched over". These highlight the aspect of shielding from harm.