to be visible

USAGE SUMMARY

'to be visible' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you are describing something that is able to be seen, either because it is naturally visible or because it is being made visible through an action. For example, "The stars were beginning to become visible in the night sky."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

You have to be visible.

The New York Times

I needed to be visible.

The New York Times

They just had to be visible.

The New York Times - Books

You've got to be visible!' She's 83!

The Guardian - Lifestyle

A deli has to be visible".

The New York Times

They don't want us to be visible".

The Guardian

The consequences, however, tend to be visible.

The New York Times

All managers need to be visible and available.

The Guardian

"It may not have to be visible from every view.

The New York Times

"Talent needs to be visible and campaigning all they can.

The New York Times

We need people with disabilities to be visible.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to be visible", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being seen and why it's important for it to be visible. For instance, use it when emphasizing the importance of representation or transparency.

Common error

Avoid using "to be visible" in contexts where "to be clear" or "to be understood" would be more appropriate. Overusing the phrase can dilute its impact when describing actual visual perception.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to be visible" functions as an infinitive phrase, often acting as a complement or part of a larger verb phrase. Ludwig confirms its correct usage in describing something capable of being seen or made apparent. This makes it a versatile component in various sentence structures.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to be visible" is a versatile and commonly used infinitive phrase that expresses the capacity or necessity for something to be seen or perceived. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various contexts, primarily in News & Media. While alternatives like "to be seen" or "to be apparent" exist, the specific choice depends on the nuance you wish to convey. When using "to be visible", ensure the context clarifies what is being made visible and why it is significant. Avoid overuse in abstract contexts where other phrases might be more precise. Being mindful of these points will help you leverage the phrase effectively in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be seen

Focuses on the act of being perceived visually.

to be apparent

Shifts the focus to the clarity and obviousness of something.

to be noticeable

Emphasizes the ease with which something can be observed or detected.

to be evident

Highlights the demonstrability and provability of something.

to be perceptible

Focuses on the ability of something to be sensed or detected.

to be in plain sight

Indicates something is easily seen because it's not hidden.

to be on display

Suggests something is intentionally shown to the public.

to be exposed

Implies something previously hidden is now revealed or uncovered.

to be revealed

Emphasizes the act of unveiling or disclosing something.

to be brought to light

Indicates the process of making something known or understood.

FAQs

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

You can use "to be visible" to describe something that can be seen or is apparent. For example, "The moon needs "to be visible" for the astronomers to conduct their research".

What are some alternatives to "to be visible"?

Alternatives include "to be seen", "to be apparent", or "to be noticeable", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "to be visible" or "to be seen"?

While both are related, "to be visible" implies the capability of being seen, while "to be seen" focuses on the action of being observed. The best choice depends on the intended emphasis.

What does it mean when something needs "to be visible"?

It often means that it needs to be easily perceived or understood, either literally or figuratively. Visibility can be crucial for recognition, transparency, or effective communication.