to be obeyed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to be obeyed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where one is discussing authority, rules, or commands that are expected to be followed. Example: "In this organization, the rules are clear: they are to be obeyed without question."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

God is a being who is to be obeyed, is someone who is a practical authority over us.

SEP

Authority is "the right to command, and correlatively, the right to be obeyed" (p. 4), which entails that anyone subject to authority has an obligation to obey those who have the right to be obeyed.

SEP

But there are rules to be obeyed.

The Guardian - Music

After all, he says, the law has to be obeyed.

The New Yorker

Orders have to be obeyed and dissent is not tolerated.

The Guardian

His style is to hand down orders and expect to be obeyed.

The Economist

His wishes seemed to be obeyed without question, with military-style thoroughness.

The Economist

At first glance, the tendency to relinquish a low Tm over Sv seems to be obeyed.

Nature

But laws are laws and they have to be obeyed by everyone, even developers.

The Guardian

The Eisenhower family "deserves to be heard, but does not deserve to be obeyed.

The Washington Post

Archives|BRYAN NOW REGRETS BARRING OF EXPERTS; Says He Would Welcome Evidence, but That the Law Had to Be Obeyed.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context and choose synonyms like "to be followed" or "to be complied with" for a less forceful tone, particularly in less formal settings.

Common error

Avoid using "to be obeyed" in casual conversation or informal writing where it might sound overly formal or authoritarian. Opt for softer alternatives that maintain a respectful tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to be obeyed" functions as a passive infinitive, often used to describe rules, laws, or directives that must be complied with. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

31%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

6%

Science & Research

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to be obeyed" is a grammatically sound and frequently used passive infinitive that conveys a sense of obligation and necessity. Ludwig AI highlights its correctness. It is particularly common in News & Media and Science contexts, as well as Encyclopedias, suggesting a range from neutral to formal usage. When writing, remember that while appropriate in many settings, "to be obeyed" can be perceived as overly formal in casual conversation; consider alternatives like "to be followed" or "to be complied with" to maintain a more approachable tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be complied with

Focuses on the act of adhering to rules or regulations, emphasizing the action of compliance.

to be adhered to

Implies a strong sense of commitment and consistency in following guidelines or principles.

to be followed

A general term for observing instructions or a path, suitable for a wide range of situations.

to be enforced

Highlights the action of making sure a rule or law is followed, often by an authority.

to be observed

Emphasizes the act of watching and conforming to customs or traditions.

to be respected

Suggests holding something in high regard and acting accordingly, often due to its importance or value.

to be heeded

Implies paying attention to advice or warnings and acting upon them.

to be submitted to

Focuses on the act of yielding or surrendering to a higher power or authority.

to be governed by

Indicates being controlled or influenced by a set of rules or principles.

to be controlled by

Indicates being subject to a superior entity or force.

FAQs

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

You can use "to be obeyed" to emphasize the necessity of following rules, laws, or commands. For example, "In the military, orders are "to be obeyed" without question."

What are some alternatives to "to be obeyed"?

Some alternatives include "to be followed", "to be complied with", or "to be adhered to", depending on the specific context and level of formality required.

When is it appropriate to use "to be obeyed" versus "to be followed"?

"To be obeyed" implies a sense of authority and obligation, suitable for rules, laws, or commands. "To be followed" is more general and applies to instructions, guidelines, or paths, without necessarily implying strict authority.

Is "to be obeyed" too formal for everyday conversation?

While grammatically correct, "to be obeyed" can sound overly formal or authoritarian in casual conversation. In such cases, consider using phrases like "should be followed" or "need to be followed" for a softer tone.