to be described

USAGE SUMMARY

"to be described" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is typically used as the passive form of the verb "describe." It can be used to describe something that is being talked about or discussed in the sentence. Example: The new product is yet to be described in detail by the sales team.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

used to be described as "Tutsi rebels".

The New Yorker

Conditions in mature markets continue to be described as challenging.

The Guardian - Business

Most likely to: Be described as a "droog disco diva".

The Guardian - Music

SR: Are you happy to be described as an outsider?

The Guardian - Music

GRADY: Comeback — it doesn't need to be described that way.

The New Yorker

Hopper didn't like his work to be described this way.

The New Yorker

(His criteria are too elaborate to be described).

The New Yorker

Least likely to: Be described as Igloo Pop.

The Guardian - Music

But the work needs to be described in business language.

The New York Times

How many singers want to be described as soothing?

Independent

Every apartment is going to be described as something great.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to be described", ensure the subject performing the action of describing is clearly implied or stated to maintain clarity and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid stacking passive voice constructions; excessive use of "to be" phrases, like "is going to be described", can make writing sound weak and convoluted. Opt for more direct, active voice alternatives when possible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to be described" functions primarily as a passive infinitive verb phrase. It indicates a state or action that will be, can be, or needs to be performed on a subject. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and commonly used construction.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

17%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to be described" is a common and grammatically sound passive verb phrase used to indicate that something will be, can be, or needs to be characterized. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and frequent usage. It's most prevalent in news and media and scientific contexts, suggesting its suitability for objective and formal communication. When using the phrase, ensure clarity by implying or stating the subject performing the description. Be mindful of avoiding overuse in overly passive constructions. Consider alternatives like "to be characterized" or "to be portrayed" for nuanced meaning. "To be described" is therefore a valuable tool in a writer's arsenal, particularly when aiming for objectivity and a focus on the subject being acted upon.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be characterized

Focuses on identifying key traits or features, emphasizing a comprehensive assessment.

to be portrayed

Emphasizes representation or depiction, particularly in artistic or media contexts.

to be depicted

Highlights visual representation or illustration, often involving images or graphics.

to be defined

Centers on establishing a clear and precise meaning or scope.

to be labeled

Implies assigning a specific category or identifier.

to be classified

Focuses on categorizing or grouping based on shared characteristics.

to be regarded as

Shifts the focus to perception and opinion, indicating how something is viewed by others.

to be considered

Highlights the act of evaluating or taking something into account.

to be known as

Emphasizes widespread recognition or familiarity.

to be referred to as

Highlights the terminology or nomenclature used to identify something.

FAQs

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

Use "to be described" when you want to indicate that something is in the process of being characterized or portrayed. For example, "The artwork is yet "to be described" in detail by art critics".

What are some alternatives to "to be described"?

Alternatives include "to be characterized", "to be portrayed", or "to be defined", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use the active or passive voice when describing something?

It depends on the context. Active voice is generally more direct and engaging, but passive voice (using phrases like "to be described") can be useful when you want to emphasize the object being acted upon or when the actor is unknown or unimportant.

Which is correct, "to be described" or "being described"?

"To be described" is the infinitive form, often used to indicate a future or potential action. "Being described" is the present participle form, used to describe an ongoing action. For example, "The project is "being described" as innovative", versus "The project is "to be described" in the next report".