I was anointed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I was anointed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts related to being chosen or appointed for a significant role, often with a ceremonial or religious connotation. Example: "After years of dedication to the community, I was anointed as the new leader of the organization."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Accordingly, I was anointed prior to each of my terms as governor".

The New Yorker

Drinks were bought, toasts were raised, and I was anointed a regular, as was my new friend, Fred Exley, the author of the justly lauded "A Fan's Notes".

The New York Times

The treatment was called a Pharaonic, and for 80 minutes I was anointed with what may have been mint and verbena or possibly lemon, rosemary and garlic.

The Guardian - Travel

To honor the Mink Meadows course on Martha's Vineyard, the shrine where I was anointed, I call the new game Minks Links.

The New York Times - Sports

I was anointed with the blood of a pig, fresh from its jugular.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Suddenly it's anointed the Messiah.

TechCrunch

The son of the Danish king Valdemar I, Canute was anointed as coregent with his father in 1170, beginning the hereditary reign of the Valdemar dynasty.

Encyclopedia Britannica

His Imperial Majesty Emperor Haile Selassie I (formerly Ras Tafari Makonnen), was anointed as their god-king, the incarnation of the second-coming of Christ.

Huffington Post

Charles was anointed there on July 17 , 1429

Encyclopedia Britannica

"My opponent, Cory Booker, was anointed by Hollywood; he was anointed by Oprah," Mr. Lonegan said.

The New York Times

Last season, just one dancer was anointed.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I was anointed" when you want to convey a sense of being specially chosen, often with religious or ceremonial undertones. This phrase is appropriate when describing a formal selection or designation for a specific role or purpose.

Common error

Avoid using "I was anointed" in contexts where a simple selection or appointment would suffice. The phrase carries a specific connotation of religious or ceremonial designation, so using it inappropriately can sound pompous or out of place.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I was anointed" functions as a passive voice construction, indicating that the subject (I) received the action of being anointed. Ludwig examples show it used in both literal and metaphorical contexts, referring to religious ceremonies or being chosen for a particular role.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Science

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I was anointed" is a grammatically correct passive construction that signifies being formally chosen or designated, frequently with religious or ceremonial implications. As highlighted by Ludwig, its usage spans from literal anointing rituals to metaphorical selections for significant roles. While generally appropriate for neutral to formal contexts, care should be taken to avoid misusing its specific connotation in casual settings. The phrase appears most commonly in news and media, encyclopedias and wiki, underlining its multifaceted usage in both contemporary reporting and historical accounts. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in diverse scenarios requiring an expression of formal designation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I was designated

Focuses on being officially chosen or appointed.

I was consecrated

Implies a formal or religious blessing.

I was chosen

A simpler way of saying selected.

I was selected

Similar to 'chosen' but slightly more formal.

I was appointed

Highlights the act of being officially assigned to a role.

I received the anointing

Emphasizes the act of receiving the anointing rather than being the recipient.

I was ordained

Suggests a formal induction into a religious or official position.

I was named

A more general term for being formally recognized or designated.

I was tapped

Suggests being discreetly chosen or selected.

I was crowned

Implies being given a position of honor or authority, often metaphorically.

FAQs

What does "I was anointed" mean?

The phrase "I was anointed" typically means that someone has been formally chosen or designated for a specific role, often with religious or ceremonial significance. It implies a sense of being specially selected or blessed for a particular purpose.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "I was anointed"?

It is appropriate to use "I was anointed" when describing a formal selection or designation for a specific role or purpose, especially when there is a religious or ceremonial aspect involved. Otherwise, consider alternatives like "I was chosen" or "I was appointed".

What are some alternatives to saying "I was anointed"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "I was selected", "I was designated", or "I was chosen". These alternatives convey the idea of being picked for a role without necessarily implying a religious ceremony.

Is "I was anointed" formal or informal?

"I was anointed" leans towards a more formal register due to its ceremonial and often religious undertones. In casual contexts, simpler alternatives like "I was picked" or "I was selected" might be more suitable.