you are told

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "you are told" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to information or instructions that someone has received from another person or source. Example: "In this course, you are told to complete the assignments by the end of each week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

One of her paintings you are told to sleep on.

The New York Times - Magazine

One of her paintings you are told to burn.

The New York Times - Magazine

Once you are told the solution, it's almost too simple.

The New Yorker

The message is simple: do as you are told.

The Guardian - Sport

Then there is authoritarianism, "the truth you are told".

The New York Times - Books

You are told you are doing the right thing.

The Guardian - Opinion

Can you pick and choose what information you are told?

The Guardian

You have to do what you are told".

The Guardian

"It's 'you do what you are told; you don't complain,' and that's just un-American".

The New York Times

IN THE West when share prices go up, you are told to "fill yer boots".

The Economist

How to do it, once you are told, and you are a physicist, it's almost obvious.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "you are told" when you want to emphasize the passive reception of information, especially when the source of the information is relevant but not the primary focus.

Common error

Avoid using "you are told" when an active voice construction would be more direct and engaging. For instance, instead of "You are told by the instructor to read chapter 3", consider "The instructor tells you to read chapter 3".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "you are told" functions as a passive construction where the subject "you" receives the action of "telling". This grammatical structure emphasizes the receiver of the information rather than the giver. As Ludwig AI confirms, this structure is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Wiki

23%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "you are told" is a common and grammatically sound way to express the passive reception of information or instructions. As Ludwig AI indicates, it’s widely used across various contexts, from news and media to scientific and general writing. When using this phrase, consider the context and whether an active voice construction might be more appropriate. Remember, "you are informed" or "you are instructed" can be viable alternatives depending on the level of formality and the nature of the communication. This will help ensure the most effective and clear conveyance of your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

you are informed

Similar to "you are told", but often implies a more official or formal communication.

you are advised

Implies a recommendation or suggestion, often from an authority.

you are instructed

Emphasizes a command or order, more direct and authoritative.

you receive instructions

Focuses on the act of receiving guidance, slightly more formal.

you are made aware

Highlights the gaining of awareness about something.

it is communicated to you

More formal and passive, emphasizing the communication process.

you learn

Highlights the acquisition of knowledge, broader than specific instructions.

you are given to understand

More indirect, suggesting a subtle implication or inference.

you hear

Emphasizes the act of hearing the information, can be less formal.

the message is

Focuses on the core message being conveyed, rather than the act of telling.

FAQs

How can I use "you are told" in a sentence?

The phrase "you are told" is used to indicate that someone has received information or instructions. For instance, "You are told to submit your assignments by Friday".

What's a more formal alternative to "you are told"?

For a more formal tone, consider using "you are informed". This phrase implies a more official or structured conveyance of information.

Is it better to use "you are told" or "you are instructed"?

The choice depends on the context. "You are instructed" suggests a more direct command or order, whereas "you are told" is a more general way of saying information was conveyed.

Can I use "you are told" in academic writing?

Yes, "you are told" is acceptable in academic writing, particularly when discussing how information is presented or understood within a specific field. However, ensure the passive voice is appropriate for the context and doesn't obscure the actor if they are important.