to be treated

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to be treated" is correct and can be used in written English in a variety of contexts.
For example, you could say "I expect to be treated with respect".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"People want to be treated with respect".

The New York Times

"This is not to be treated lightly".

The New York Times

We want to be treated fairly, equally.

The New York Times - Tech

I wanted to be treated equally.

Independent

We all want to be treated beautifully.

Independent

Upholstered furniture also needs to be treated.

The New York Times

"I want people to be treated fairly.

The New Yorker

"They all need to be treated equally.

The New York Times - Sports

Their right to be treated with dignity.

Independent

"We're asking to be treated fairly".

The New York Times

Such activists, understandably, want to be treated.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about expectations or rights, use "to be treated" to emphasize the desired standard of behavior or consideration. For example: "Everyone has the right "to be treated" with respect."

Common error

Avoid overuse of the passive voice when using "to be treated", as it can obscure who is responsible for the action. Instead of "Mistakes need "to be treated" seriously", consider "We must treat mistakes seriously" for a more direct and impactful message.

Linguistic Context

The infinitive phrase "to be treated" functions primarily as a verbal complement, often expressing an expectation, necessity, or condition related to how someone or something should be handled. Ludwig AI confirms this through numerous examples where the phrase clarifies the desired state of being.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Wiki

21%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Science

6%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to be treated" is a versatile infinitive phrase frequently used to express expectations, needs, or rights regarding how someone or something should be handled. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various contexts, from news and media to formal business settings. While the phrase maintains a neutral register, it's essential to consider the active/passive voice to ensure clarity and impact. Being mindful of these aspects will help writers effectively communicate their intended meaning. Remember, as evidenced by the examples, the phrase emphasizes the action being received rather than the act of doing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to receive treatment

Focuses specifically on medical or therapeutic care.

to be handled

Emphasizes the manner in which something or someone is managed.

to be dealt with

Highlights the process of addressing a situation or problem.

to be regarded

Stresses the perception or opinion held about someone or something.

to be considered

Implies a careful evaluation or assessment.

to be respected

Focuses on receiving honor and esteem.

to be valued

Highlights the importance or worth placed on someone or something.

to be given attention

Emphasizes the act of receiving focus and care.

to be cared for

Focuses on receiving nurturing and protection.

to be viewed

Highlights a particular way of seeing or understanding something.

FAQs

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

The phrase "to be treated" typically introduces an expectation or condition. For example, "Patients expect "to be treated" with compassion" or "This issue needs "to be treated" with urgency".

What's a formal alternative to "to be treated"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "to be handled" or "to be addressed" which convey a similar meaning with a more professional tone.

What does it mean when something 'needs to be treated'?

When something 'needs "to be treated"', it means that a particular action or intervention is required to resolve an issue or improve a condition. For instance, 'This wound needs "to be treated" immediately' indicates the necessity of prompt medical attention.

Which is correct, "to be treated" or "to treat"?

The choice between "to be treated" and "to treat" depends on the intended meaning. "To treat" implies actively performing an action, while "to be treated" indicates receiving an action. For example, 'Doctors "treat" patients,' but 'Patients expect "to be treated" well.'