to be seconded

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to be seconded" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in formal contexts, such as meetings or discussions, to indicate that someone supports or endorses a proposal or motion made by another person. Example: "I would like to propose a new initiative, and I hope it will be seconded by my colleagues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

Permanent coaches will be appointed, while assistants are likely to be seconded from the counties for short-term guest roles.

The Guardian - Sport

There are also proposals to have trained officers ready to be seconded from other duties in the event of a terror-related incident.

Independent

Then I had to apply for funding and go for the interview to be seconded as a Mouth Care Lead for 12 months.

Nature

He said there was already a queue of established architects from the firm's central London office wanting to be seconded to the project.

The Guardian

Lest civil servants miss the point, staff from the Foreign Office's own human-rights department are to be seconded to bodies such as Article 19 and the Minority Rights Group.

The Economist

He said there was "something to" the concerns about independence if it was moved to Canberra, and particularly if the staffing turned out to be seconded from the department rather than hired independently.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

"To be first".

The New Yorker

Someone had to be first.

Independent

I wanted to be first".

The New York Times

I don't want to be first.

The New York Times - Sports

But someone had to be first".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to be seconded" in formal settings such as meetings, official debates, or legal proceedings where endorsement of a motion is required. It adds a layer of formality and clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "to be seconded" in informal conversations or writing where a simpler expression of agreement or support would be more appropriate. Overusing formal language can sound unnatural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to be seconded" functions as a passive infinitive, often used to indicate that a motion, proposal, or nomination requires a second person to formally express their support. As noted by Ludwig, this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Wiki

18%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

12%

Academia

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to be seconded" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to indicate formal endorsement or support, especially in structured environments like meetings and official debates. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. The phrase is most frequently encountered in news and media, wiki, and science contexts, suggesting a formal register. When aiming for simpler communication, consider alternatives like "to be supported" or "to be endorsed". Ensure that "to be seconded" is used appropriately in formal contexts to maintain clarity and avoid sounding unnatural in casual conversation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be seconded by

Specifically indicates who is providing the support.

to be supported

Focuses on the backing or assistance provided, rather than the formal endorsement.

to be endorsed

Emphasizes a formal approval or recommendation.

to be ratified

Suggests a formal validation or confirmation, often in legal or official contexts.

to be approved

Indicates that something has received official permission or agreement.

to be upheld

Suggests the maintaining or defending of a decision or principle.

to be validated

Highlights the confirmation of something's accuracy or legitimacy.

to be affirmed

Stresses a strong declaration or confirmation of something.

to be corroborated

Implies that something is supported by additional evidence or testimony.

to gain support

Implies acquiring or attracting endorsement, shifting focus from the act to the result.

FAQs

How is "to be seconded" typically used in formal settings?

In formal settings, "to be seconded" indicates that a proposal or motion requires a second person to formally support it before it can be discussed or voted upon. It ensures that at least two people find the motion worthy of consideration.

What's a simpler alternative to "to be seconded" in everyday conversation?

In everyday conversation, you can use phrases like "to be supported", "to be agreed to", or "to be backed up" instead of "to be seconded". These alternatives are less formal and easier to understand.

In what situations is it appropriate to use "to be seconded by"?

Use "to be seconded by" when you want to specify who is providing the supporting endorsement. For example, "The motion needs "to be seconded by" a member of the committee".

Is there a difference between "to be seconded" and "to be endorsed"?

While both phrases imply approval, "to be seconded" typically refers to formal support in a procedural context, like a meeting. "To be endorsed" has a broader meaning, signifying general approval or recommendation.