to be detected

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to be detected" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you are discussing something that may be discovered or identified, often in relation to problems, issues, or phenomena. Example: "The error in the system is difficult to be detected without thorough testing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

I have early detection, and the earliest stage that is really, almost, possible to be detected".

The New York Times

Thus, the lies to be detected.

The New York Times

The point is not to be detected.

The Guardian

The donor's infection had occurred too recently to be detected.

The New York Times

Any would be too faint to be detected.

The New York Times - Science

But no trace of decayed wood was to be detected.

Harvard University

For this reason they have to be detected explicitly.

ISPRS Journal of Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing

Somehow the whole seemingly fragile collection would be sticking together long enough to be detected.

The New York Times - Science

A surreptitious software change on a voting machine would be far less likely to be detected.

The New York Times

This is helpful for identifying people who carry plastic weapons that are intended to be detected.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Q: What do gravitational waves do that allowed them to be detected?

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to be detected" when you want to emphasize the potential for something to be found or identified, especially in contexts involving investigation, monitoring, or testing.

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on passive constructions like "to be detected". In many cases, an active voice construction (e.g., "detect") can make your writing more direct and impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to be detected" primarily functions as part of an infinitive clause, often in passive constructions. It indicates the potential for something to be found or noticed, as supported by examples from Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

41%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to be detected" is a common and grammatically correct infinitive phrase used to express the potential for something to be discovered or identified. As Ludwig AI indicates, its usage spans various contexts, particularly in news, science, and academic writing. While versatile, consider active voice alternatives for more direct prose. Remember to use this phrase when emphasizing the possibility of detection through specific methods.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be identified

Focuses on recognizing a specific entity or characteristic, shifting emphasis from the act of finding to the act of classification.

to be discovered

Emphasizes the unveiling of something previously unknown, highlighting the novelty of the finding.

to be noticed

Implies a passive observation, suggesting something becomes apparent without active searching.

to be found

A more general term indicating the location or existence of something previously missing or hidden.

to be revealed

Suggests a disclosure or uncovering of something previously concealed, often implying a deliberate act.

to be ascertained

Implies a careful and methodical process of finding something out for certain.

to be exposed

Highlights the act of uncovering something, often with a negative connotation of revealing something undesirable.

to be uncovered

Similar to "to be revealed" but can also imply a more accidental or serendipitous discovery.

to be pinpointed

Focuses on identifying the exact location or cause of something with precision.

to be diagnosed

Specifically refers to identifying a disease or condition through medical examination.

FAQs

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

You can use "to be detected" in sentences where you want to express the possibility of something being discovered or identified, such as "The flaw is difficult "to be detected" without careful inspection."

What's the difference between "to be detected" and "to be discovered"?

"To be detected" implies the possibility of finding something through observation or investigation, while "to be discovered" suggests uncovering something previously unknown. Use "to be discovered" when highlighting the novelty of the finding.

Are there situations where "to be found" is a better choice than "to be detected"?

Yes, "to be found" is a more general term suitable when you simply want to indicate the location or existence of something, whereas "to be detected" is more appropriate when the act of finding involves a specific process or technology.

What are some formal alternatives to "to be detected" in scientific writing?

In formal contexts, consider using alternatives such as "to be identified" or "to be ascertained" to convey a more precise and technical meaning.