you are given

USAGE SUMMARY

"you are given" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation in which someone is receiving something. Example: You are given a free pass to the amusement park.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

You are given no further instructions.

The New Yorker

If you are given a lot, you have a responsibility".

The New York Times

Say you are given a choice of two cookies.

The New York Times

"Imagine you are given a choice," he said.

The Guardian

You are given 'chances'opportunitieses'incheses,' as well as Miles.

The New Yorker

You marry: you are given a room in the apartment.

The Guardian - Books

If you are given to seasickness, you may get seasick.

The New York Times - Magazine

If unemployment rises, you are given work, murderous work.

The New Yorker

you are given isn't really that good," Professor Statman says.

The New York Times

"Everything you are given, you have to take".

Independent

You are given a ticket with the licence number.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Vary your vocabulary. While "you are given" is perfectly acceptable, use synonyms like "you receive", "you are provided with", or "you are offered" to make your writing more engaging.

Common error

Overuse of passive voice can obscure who is performing the action. Make sure the context makes it clear who or what is providing the item or instruction when using "you are given". If the actor is unknown, then passive voice makes more sense.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "you are given" functions primarily as a passive construction, indicating that the subject ("you") is the recipient of an action. This emphasizes the thing or opportunity received rather than the giver. Ludwig shows this usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "you are given" is a common and grammatically correct construction used to indicate that someone is receiving something. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread use. It functions as a passive construction, emphasizing the recipient of the action, and is suitable for neutral contexts like news and general writing. While "you are given" is generally acceptable, consider using synonyms like "you receive" or "you are provided with" for variety or to achieve a more formal tone. When using the phrase, ensure clarity about who is doing the giving and avoid overuse to prevent ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

you receive

This alternative is a more direct and simple way of saying someone gets something.

you are offered

This alternative highlights the offer being made to someone.

you are presented with

This alternative emphasizes the act of presenting or offering something.

you are provided with

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the act of providing something.

you are granted

This alternative implies permission or authorization to receive something.

you are furnished with

This alternative is more formal and indicates that something is supplied or equipped.

you obtain

This alternative suggests a more active effort in getting something.

you acquire

This alternative suggests gaining possession of something, often through effort.

you come into possession of

This alternative is a more elaborate way of saying you obtain something.

you secure

This alternative emphasizes the act of making something certain or safe to receive.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "you are given" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "you are provided with" or "you are furnished with". These options emphasize the act of providing something in a more official manner.

What's the difference between "you are given" and "you receive"?

"You are given" implies that something is being offered or presented to you by someone else. "You receive" is a more general term that simply means you get something, without necessarily specifying how or from whom.

Is it grammatically correct to say "you are give" instead of "you are given"?

No, "you are give" is grammatically incorrect. The correct form is "you are given", which uses the past participle of the verb "give" to form the passive voice.

What are some alternatives to "you are given" in a technical context?

In a technical context, you might use alternatives like "you are provided with", "you obtain", or "you acquire" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. These options can sound more precise and professional.