to be programmed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to be programmed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the process of setting up software, systems, or devices to perform specific tasks or functions. Example: "The new software update is designed to be programmed with user preferences for a more personalized experience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"They still have to be programmed by human beings.

BBC

But Zoolander may be too addled to be programmed.

The New York Times

He was everything he pretended not to be: programmed, afraid, intimidated, weak".

The New Yorker

Fashion minds tend to be programmed to react at certain times of the year.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It's likely to generate further work, which needs to be programmed into your work schedule.

The Guardian

All the exceptions to the rules needed to be programmed in too.

The Economist

A sensor responds to any remote control signal, so the remote does not have to be programmed by the user.

The New York Times - Tech

What's the use of new technology if it's going to be programmed by the same old humans?

The New Yorker

These are the things that need to be organized.... What needs to be programmed is the unexpected.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

"And the standard ought to be programs that encourage people to put architecture in the forefront".

The New York Times - Arts

"I always wanted to be program director," Mr. Zeiler said, joking.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing the implementation of algorithms or software, use "to be programmed" to clearly indicate the action of writing code to achieve specific functionalities.

Common error

Avoid using "to be programmed" when describing tasks that involve simple configuration or setup. Reserve it for scenarios where actual coding or algorithmic implementation is required.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to be programmed" functions as a passive infinitive verb phrase. It's used to indicate that a subject requires or is intended for the action of programming. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

31%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to be programmed" functions as a passive infinitive, indicating that a subject requires the action of programming. As Ludwig AI shows, it is grammatically correct and frequently used across varied sources like news, science, encyclopedias and wikis. It expresses the necessity for configuring something, and in general the register is neutral. While it is not specifically present in Formal & Business contexts or Social Media, understanding its proper usage and context is crucial for effective communication. Keep in mind that "to be programmed" is best suited for expressing the need for implementation or modification through code, rather than mere adjustments or setups.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be configured

Focuses on setting parameters or options within a system.

to be set up

Emphasizes the process of getting something ready for use.

to be automated

Highlights the ability to perform tasks automatically without human intervention.

to be initialized

Implies setting up a system or device to a starting state.

to be calibrated

Refers to adjusting a system to ensure accurate and precise operation.

to be customized

Focuses on tailoring something to specific individual needs or preferences.

to be adapted

Highlights the modification of something to suit a new purpose or condition.

to be controlled

Emphasizes the power to direct or influence the behavior of something.

to be regulated

Focuses on governing or directing something according to rules or laws.

to be orchestrated

Highlights the arrangement or coordination of different elements to achieve a desired outcome.

FAQs

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

You can use "to be programmed" to describe the process of configuring a device, software, or system to perform specific tasks. For example, "The robot needs "to be programmed" to navigate the warehouse efficiently."

What are some alternatives to "to be programmed"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "to be configured", "to be set up", or "to be automated".

Is it correct to say "the device is programmed" instead of "the device needs to be programmed"?

Yes, "the device is programmed" implies the action has already occurred, whereas "the device needs "to be programmed"" indicates a future action is required.

What is the difference between "to be programmed" and "to program"?

"To program" is the infinitive form of the verb, indicating the action. "To be programmed" is the passive infinitive, suggesting that something receives the action of programming. For example, "Engineers need "to program" the device" vs. "The device needs "to be programmed"".