to be spoken

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to be spoken" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to something that is intended to be articulated or expressed verbally. Example: "The message was clear, but it was meant to be spoken rather than written."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Lives to be spoken of pityingly.

The New Yorker

Only English was to be spoken.

The Washington Post

It didn't need to be spoken.

The New York Times

Not all truths need to be spoken.

The Guardian - Opinion

waiting to be spoken and now isn't.

The New Yorker

"MERITOCRACY" tends to be spoken of approvingly these days.

The Economist

Other Romance tongues earlier ceased to be spoken.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Occitan continues to be spoken in the Comtat Venaissin.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Occitan continues to be spoken by much of the population.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

People seem to be speaking in "codes".

The New Yorker

He seemed to be speaking seriously.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to be spoken" when you want to emphasize the act of verbal communication or the potential for something to be said aloud. Ensure the context clearly indicates what is being, or needs, to be articulated.

Common error

Avoid using "to be spoken" when an active voice would be clearer and more direct. For example, instead of "the instructions need to be spoken clearly", consider "speak the instructions clearly".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to be spoken" functions as an infinitive phrase, often used in passive constructions. Ludwig AI provides numerous examples showing its use to indicate that something should be communicated verbally rather than through other means. The phrase serves to highlight the action of speaking rather than the speaker themselves.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Encyclopedias

17%

Science

11%

Less common in

Academia

7%

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to be spoken" is a grammatically sound and frequently used infinitive phrase that typically appears in passive constructions. Ludwig AI confirms its versatility across various contexts, including news, encyclopedias, and scientific publications. Its primary function is to emphasize the act of verbal communication, whether to instruct, prescribe, or highlight a specific mode of delivery. While the phrase carries a generally neutral to formal tone, it's important to consider whether an active voice might create a clearer and more direct statement. By understanding its nuances and potential pitfalls, writers can effectively utilize "to be spoken" in their communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be uttered

Replaces "spoken" with a synonym emphasizing the act of vocalizing.

to be voiced

Focuses on the act of giving voice to something, often an opinion or feeling.

to be articulated

Highlights the clarity and precision of the expression.

to be expressed verbally

Emphasizes the verbal nature of the communication.

to be communicated orally

Similar to "expressed verbally" but uses "orally" for emphasis.

to be said aloud

Focuses on the audible nature of the statement.

to be declared

Implies a formal or official announcement.

to be proclaimed

Suggests a public and often emphatic announcement.

to be divulged

Indicates the revealing of something previously secret or unknown.

to be disclosed

Similar to "divulged" but often used in a more formal or legal context.

FAQs

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

Use "to be spoken" when indicating that something should be communicated verbally, as in, "The password is not to be written down; it is "to be spoken" directly to the recipient".

What are some alternatives to "to be spoken"?

Consider using alternatives like "to be uttered", "to be voiced", or "to be articulated" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it more appropriate to use "to be spoken" versus "to speak"?

"To be spoken" is passive and emphasizes the receiver of the action, while "to speak" is active and emphasizes the performer of the action. Use "to be spoken" when the focus is on the message being delivered, not who is delivering it.

Is it correct to say "the words are to be spoken" or "the words need to be spoken"?

Both are grammatically correct, but "the words need to be spoken" implies a necessity, while "the words are "to be spoken"" simply states an intention or instruction. The choice depends on the intended meaning.