to be supposed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to be supposed" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate an expectation or assumption about something. Example: "You are supposed to submit your report by Friday."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

"Is it to be supposed that the white race will stand for that?" Benning wrote.

The New York Times

This line seems to be supposed to bring the house down.

The Guardian - Film

We seem to be supposed to admire and even envy Tom and Gerri's cosy contentment, but in fact their allotment-centred lives seem mind-numbingly boring.

The Guardian - Film

It's mainly of importance to marketers; it's of use to critics and scholars because it creates the illusion of rules that artists are assumed to be supposed to follow, or break, or relate to.

The New Yorker

In any event, leaving aside Ed Miliband's repeated statements against any coalition with an SNP bloc, is it to be supposed that the Labour party in parliament would be welcoming to those who have defeated their own colleagues?

The Guardian - Opinion

Was it to be supposed that when girls of this kind reached womanhood and became mothers they could produce men and women with anything but the most miserable physique and of the neurotic type?

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

It's supposed to be.

The New Yorker

"They're supposed to".

The Guardian - Film

He was supposed to.

The New Yorker

They are supposed to.

The Economist

He is supposed to.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to be supposed" to indicate a generally accepted expectation or obligation. Be mindful of the passive voice and consider active voice alternatives for more direct and impactful writing.

Common error

Avoid using "to be supposed" to express personal beliefs or opinions. This phrase is best suited for conveying societal expectations or common knowledge, not individual viewpoints.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to be supposed" functions as a passive voice construction, indicating an expectation, obligation, or common belief. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. Examples show its use in conveying societal norms or understood arrangements.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

32%

Formal & Business

16%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to be supposed" is a versatile phrase used to express expectations, obligations, or common beliefs. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically sound and finds frequent application across various contexts. While appropriate for both formal and informal writing, it's crucial to consider the specific nuance you want to convey and whether a more direct alternative might be more effective. Remember, use this phrase to convey general expectations rather than personal opinions, and be aware of the passive voice construction. Keep in mind that in formal writing a more clear alternative might be preferable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

expected to be

This alternative shifts the emphasis to a direct expectation.

meant to be

This alternative indicates a purpose or destiny.

intended to be

This alternative highlights the original plan or intention.

presumed to be

This alternative suggests an assumption based on evidence.

assumed to be

This alternative implies a belief without concrete proof.

understood to be

This alternative focuses on a shared understanding or agreement.

supposedly

This is a shortened, adverbial form of the original phrase

purported to be

This alternative suggests a claim that may or may not be true.

reputed to be

This alternative indicates something is known by reputation.

alleged to be

This alternative implies an unproven accusation.

FAQs

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

Use "to be supposed" to indicate an expectation, obligation, or common belief. For example, "You are supposed to submit your report by Friday" or "The meeting is supposed to start at 9 AM".

What's the difference between "expected to be" and "to be supposed"?

"Expected to be" often implies a more formal or explicitly stated expectation, while "to be supposed" can refer to a more general or implied understanding.

Can I use "to be supposed" in formal writing?

Yes, "to be supposed" is appropriate for formal writing, but consider whether a more direct or active voice alternative might be clearer and more impactful.

Is there a more concise way to express the meaning of "to be supposed"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "should", "ought to", or simply use the verb directly to imply obligation or expectation.