trapped by

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "trapped by" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation in which someone is unable to escape from or avoid something. For example: "The mouse became trapped by the lid of the box that had been accidentally left open."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Trapped by the past.

Independent

Trapped by a skilled inquisition.

Independent

He says: "You get trapped by stories.

Independent

More sand is trapped by vegetation.

The New York Times - Science

We are actually trapped by the fighting.

The New York Times

He felt trapped by it.

The Guardian - Music

Damberg is trapped by Swedes.

The Guardian

Everyone is trapped by his fate".

The New York Times - Arts

But we can't be trapped by it".

The Guardian

Juliet also felt trapped by our situation.

The Guardian - Travel

He looked trapped by his elders.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "trapped by", ensure the context clearly identifies what is causing the entrapment, be it circumstances, emotions, or physical barriers. Specificity enhances clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "trapped by" when the subject has willingly entered the situation. This can create a misleading impression of victimhood where none exists.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "trapped by" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically used to describe the state of being confined or restricted by something. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

12%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Social Media

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "trapped by" is a common and grammatically correct prepositional phrase used to describe a state of confinement or restriction. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its validity and widespread use in various contexts, primarily in News & Media. It effectively conveys a sense of being limited or unable to escape a particular situation, whether caused by circumstances, emotions, or physical barriers. Alternatives like "constrained by" or "limited by" can offer nuanced variations of the same core meaning. When using "trapped by", ensure clarity regarding the cause of entrapment to avoid misinterpretations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

constrained by

Emphasizes limitation or restriction, shifting the focus from being caught to being confined.

limited by

Highlights the presence of boundaries or restrictions, suggesting a lack of freedom.

bound by

Implies an obligation or commitment, suggesting a lack of choice.

hemmed in by

Conveys a sense of being surrounded and confined, both physically and metaphorically.

circumscribed by

Suggests a precise limitation or boundary, focusing on definition and restriction.

encumbered by

Highlights the burden or difficulty imposed by something, shifting the focus to weight and obstruction.

restricted by

Focuses on the act of limiting or restraining, emphasizing external control.

controlled by

Indicates a lack of autonomy, where external forces dictate actions.

dominated by

Emphasizes the power imbalance and influence of one entity over another.

cornered by

Implies a lack of escape routes or alternatives, suggesting a desperate situation.

FAQs

How can I use "trapped by" in a sentence?

You can use "trapped by" to describe situations where someone or something is unable to escape a circumstance or feeling. For example, "He felt "trapped by his past"" or "The city was "trapped by the floodwaters"".

What are some alternatives to "trapped by"?

Alternatives to "trapped by" include "constrained by", "limited by", or "bound by", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "trapped by" something?

Yes, it is correct to use "trapped by" something. It's a common and grammatically sound way to express that someone or something is unable to escape or avoid a particular situation or influence.

What's the difference between "trapped by" and "controlled by"?

"Trapped by" suggests a lack of freedom to leave a situation, while "controlled by" implies that someone or something is dictating your actions or choices. "Trapped by" focuses on confinement, whereas "controlled by" focuses on influence and power.