to be green

Meanings

1. 1adjectivelinkinginformal

   To be inexperienced or new to a situation, often lacking knowledge.

   Grammar: Used with the verb 'be' as a linking verb, followed by an adjective.

   Patterns

   • be green
   • be green at something

   He's still green and needs more training before he can work alone.

   The new interns are green but eager to learn.

2. 2adjectivelinking

   To be environmentally friendly or concerned with protecting nature.

   Grammar: Often used in marketing and politics; can describe products, policies, or people.

   Patterns

   • be green
   • be green in something

   The company is trying to be green by using recycled materials.

   Many voters want the government to be greener in its energy policies.

3. 3adjectivelinking

   To look pale and sick, especially in the face.

   Grammar: Usually describes someone's appearance due to illness or fear.

   Patterns

   • be green
   • be green around the gills

   After the roller coaster ride, she was green and had to sit down.

   He looked green with nausea after eating the spoiled food.

Common combinations

green with envy

She was green with envy when she saw her friend's new car.

green around the gills

He was green around the gills after the boat trip.

green energy

The country is investing in green energy like solar and wind power.

Synonyms and how they differ

inexperienced

More formal and direct; 'green' is informal and often used in a slightly critical way.

eco-friendly

More specific to the environment; 'green' can also mean inexperienced or pale.

Opposites

Word family

greenness noun

The quality of being green, especially inexperience or environmental friendliness.

greener adjective

Comparative form of green.

Commonly confused: to be green or grin?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “to be green”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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