to be on the list

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to be on the list" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to someone's inclusion in a specific list, such as a guest list, a list of participants, or any other enumerated group. Example: "I was thrilled to find my name to be on the list of finalists for the competition."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Also like venues, the only vendors getting recommended are the ones paying to be on the list.

Huffington Post

To be on the list was amazing.

The Guardian - Music

"You don't appear to be on the list".

Independent

The Rangers are believed to be on the list.

The New York Times - Sports

"It is becoming an honour to be on the list.

The Economist

Some had expected to be on the list.

The New York Times

Two all-time Mets deserve to be on the list.

The New York Times - Sports

What else deserves to be on the list?

The Guardian - Film

Others were less surprised to be on the list.

The Guardian

What else ought to be on the list?

The Guardian - Film

Thailand colon cleansing has got to be on the list.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to be on the list", ensure the context clearly defines what the list represents. For example, specify if it's a guest list, a shortlist, or a catalog of items.

Common error

Avoid using incorrect prepositions such as "in the list" instead of "on the list". "On" is the correct preposition to indicate inclusion within a list.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to be on the list" functions as a predicate nominative or adjective phrase, indicating membership or inclusion within a specific enumeration. Ludwig confirms the correct usage of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to be on the list" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to indicate inclusion within a specified enumeration. As verified by Ludwig, its usage spans across various contexts, from formal news reports to informal conversations. Predominantly found in News & Media, it serves the purpose of conveying membership or presence within a particular group or roster. When using the phrase, ensure the context clearly defines the nature of the list. Common alternatives include "to be included on the list", "to appear on the list", and "to make the list".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be included on the list

This alternative directly replaces "to be" with "to be included", emphasizing the act of inclusion.

to feature on the list

This alternative uses "feature" to suggest prominence or visibility on the list.

to appear on the list

This alternative uses "appear" to describe a more passive presence on the list.

to be a member of the list

This implies a more formal or structured inclusion, suggesting belonging to a defined group.

to make the list

This suggests successfully meeting the criteria for inclusion.

to be considered for the list

This indicates a possibility of inclusion, rather than a confirmed presence.

to be among those listed

This alternative highlights being part of a larger group that is enumerated.

to be nominated for the list

This implies being suggested or proposed for inclusion, often requiring a selection process.

to qualify for the list

This suggests meeting specific requirements or standards to be eligible for inclusion.

to gain a place on the list

This alternative emphasizes achieving or earning inclusion through effort or merit.

FAQs

What does it mean "to be on the list"?

The phrase "to be on the list" means to be included or registered within a specific enumeration or compilation of items, names, or entities. It signifies membership or presence within that particular group.

How can I use "to be on the list" in a sentence?

You can use "to be on the list" to indicate inclusion. For example: "I was happy to find my name "to be on the list" of accepted applicants."

What are some alternatives to "to be on the list"?

Alternatives include "to be included on the list", "to appear on the list", or "to make the list", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "to be on the list" and "to be in the list"?

"To be on the list" is the correct and idiomatic expression. "To be in the list" is grammatically incorrect and not commonly used.