to be grasped

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to be grasped" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing concepts, ideas, or information that need to be understood or comprehended. Example: "The complexities of quantum physics are often challenging to be grasped by those without a strong background in science."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

This opportunity needs to be grasped.

The Economist

But it's a genuine opportunity to be grasped.

The Guardian - Tech

There are numerous examples of how the nettle of public engagement has begun to be grasped.

The Guardian

This is core political terrain to be grasped, defined and owned.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is as if the universe were no longer there to be grasped.

The New York Times - Books

It is also likely to be grasped as an opportunity by jihadi groups.

The Guardian

The detail in the movement is too dense to be grasped in one viewing.

The New York Times - Arts

The woman's right hand seems to extend from the canvas, as if to be grasped by a rescuing viewer.

The New Yorker

("They shoo a truly naughty gnu" is not likely to be grasped by most 3-year-olds).

The New York Times - Books

Rank was not so much a reward for efficient service as a privilege to be grasped and jealously guarded.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Which brings us to another of Zuckerberg's assumptions: that experience itself can (and ought to) be grasped instantaneously.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to be grasped" when you want to emphasize that something needs to be understood or appreciated, often highlighting a challenge or subtlety in the concept.

Common error

Avoid using "to be grasped" in situations where simpler alternatives like "to be understood" or "to be known" would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound unnecessarily complex or pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to be grasped" functions as a verb phrase, typically used in the passive voice. It indicates that a subject (an idea, concept, or opportunity) requires comprehension or understanding. As Ludwig AI suggests, this understanding may not be immediately obvious and requires effort.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to be grasped" is a grammatically sound verb phrase indicating the need for understanding or comprehension, often in situations where the subject matter is complex or subtle. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely used across various contexts, including news media, science, and encyclopedias. While acceptable in formal and neutral registers, simpler alternatives may be preferred in more casual settings. When using this phrase, be mindful of overuse and ensure it genuinely adds value by emphasizing the effort required for understanding. Consider alternatives such as "to be understood" or "to be comprehended" for simpler contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be understood

Focuses on the act of comprehension, emphasizing that something needs to be made clear or intelligible.

to be comprehended

Similar to "to be understood", but often implies a more thorough or complete understanding.

to be apprehended

Implies a grasp or seizure of something, either physically or mentally, highlighting the act of taking hold.

to be realized

Shifts the focus to becoming aware or conscious of something, often after a period of unawareness.

to be seized

Highlights the act of taking advantage of an opportunity, emphasizing prompt and decisive action.

to be discerned

Emphasizes the act of perceiving or recognizing something that is not immediately obvious, requiring careful observation or analysis.

to be assimilated

Focuses on the process of integrating new information or ideas into an existing framework of knowledge.

to be captured

Implies a successful effort to record or express something, often with the goal of preserving it.

to be mastered

Emphasizes achieving a high level of skill or proficiency in something, often through dedicated study or practice.

to be internalized

Focuses on the process of fully accepting or adopting something as one's own belief or value.

FAQs

What does "to be grasped" mean?

The phrase "to be grasped" means to be understood or comprehended. It often implies that some effort or insight is needed to fully understand something.

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

You can use "to be grasped" to indicate that a concept, idea, or opportunity needs to be understood or seized. For instance, "The full implications of the new policy have yet "to be grasped"".

What are some alternatives to "to be grasped"?

Some alternatives include "to be understood", "to be comprehended", or "to be realized", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "to be grasped" or "to be understood"?

Both phrases are correct, but "to be grasped" often suggests a more active or insightful understanding is required. "To be understood" is generally more straightforward and widely applicable.