to be labeled

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to be labeled" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the act of assigning a name or category to something or someone. Example: "The products are to be labeled according to their specifications before shipping."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

I think it's lame for any human being to have to be labeled".

The New York Times - Style

They need to be labeled as such.

The New York Times

I don't like to be labeled.

The New York Times

Tiger refuses to be labeled a color.

The New York Times

The show is hardly ready to be labeled a hit.

The New York Times - Arts

"I do not want to be labeled grumpy, gloomy, doomy.

The New York Times - Sports

They do not want to be labeled as "genocide perpetrators".

The New York Times

"I don't want to be labeled a nut".

The New York Times

"Nobody likes to be labeled as opposed to reform".

The New York Times

Why does it have to be labeled "pandering"?

The New York Times

"I never want to be labeled as that".

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to be labeled", ensure the context clearly indicates who is doing the labeling and what criteria they are using. This adds clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

While "to be labeled" is a passive construction, avoid overusing it. Active voice often makes your writing more direct and engaging. Consider rephrasing to specify the labeler (e.g., "The company labeled the product as organic").

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to be labeled" functions as a passive infinitive verb phrase, indicating that something is the recipient of the action of labeling. This is supported by Ludwig, which confirms its correct usage in examples such as items needing to be labeled.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

9%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to be labeled" is a versatile and common passive infinitive used to express the need for categorization or identification. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable. Its usage spans across various contexts, most notably in news and media, where clear and accurate labeling is crucial. While generally neutral in register, awareness of the intended audience and context ensures the most effective communication. By understanding its function and purpose, writers can confidently incorporate "to be labeled" into their writing to convey the necessity of classification.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be categorized

This alternative focuses on the act of placing something into a specific category, emphasizing classification.

to be classified

Similar to "to be categorized", this option highlights a more formal or systematic assignment to a group or type.

to be identified as

This suggests the act of recognizing or establishing something's identity.

to be designated

Implies a formal assignment or naming, often for a specific purpose.

to be branded

Specifically refers to giving something a brand or identity, often in a marketing or commercial context.

to be tagged

Emphasizes a simpler, often less formal, method of identification.

to be defined as

Focuses on providing a precise definition or explanation of what something is.

to be known as

Indicates the common or recognized name or identity of something.

to be considered

Highlights the act of regarding or thinking of something in a particular way.

to be regarded as

Similar to "to be considered", but suggests a more widely held or formal opinion.

FAQs

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

You can use "to be labeled" when you want to express that something needs to be identified or categorized. For example: "All products need "to be labeled" clearly before shipping."

What's the difference between "to be labeled" and "to be tagged"?

"To be labeled" generally implies a more formal or official categorization, while "to be tagged" suggests a simpler, often temporary, identification. For instance, items for sale might to be tagged with a price, whereas official documents need "to be labeled" with a classification.

Which is correct, "to be labeled" or "to label"?

Both phrases are correct but used in different contexts. "To label" is an active infinitive (e.g., "We need to label these boxes"), while ""to be labeled"" is a passive infinitive (e.g., "These boxes need "to be labeled"").

What can I say instead of "to be labeled"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "to be classified", "to be categorized", or "to be identified as".