I was molested

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I was molested" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing experiences of sexual abuse or assault in a serious context, such as in personal accounts, legal discussions, or support settings. Example: "After years of silence, I finally found the courage to speak out about the fact that I was molested as a child."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

("As a teenager I was molested by a doctor, which for a Jewish girl is, you know, so bittersweet").

The New York Times - Arts

I was looking for guidance and counselling, instead I was molested by a guy twice my age.

The Guardian - Opinion

I was molested, raped, had an abortion, tried to kill myself, sold drugs, prostituted myself and did uppers, downers, cocaine, crack cocaine, you name it.

The New York Times - Magazine

The school confronted him and, according to the FBI affadavit, he said: "I was molested as a boy, that is why I do this.

The Guardian

When she was thirteen and her sister was eight, "in that house, she was molested and I was molested in full hearing of my mother: three incidents within six months".

The New Yorker

After I was molested by an American tourist who'd become friends with my parents, instead of taking me to somewhere nobody could hear, she confronted me in front of my sisters and brothers.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

If I were molesting babies, I get it.

The New York Times - Food

I asked a friend of mine recently what he would do if his child was molested after the church knew.

The New York Times

Her father, Mark Berenson, has also said she was molested.

The New York Times

She said she was molested by a stranger.

The New York Times - Arts

He was molested as a seven-year-old by a male family friend.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "I was molested", ensure that the context is appropriate and sensitive. Consider the audience and the purpose of your communication. If possible and when needed, provide resources for support and healing.

Common error

Avoid using the phrase "I was molested" in casual or flippant contexts. This phrase carries significant weight and should be used with respect and seriousness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I was molested" functions as a declarative statement. It directly expresses a personal experience of sexual abuse, conveying a past event where the speaker was the recipient of unwanted sexual contact. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in such contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Science

6%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "I was molested" is a direct and serious statement used to disclose a personal experience of sexual abuse. According to Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and most commonly found in news and media contexts. Given the sensitive nature of the topic, it's crucial to use this phrase with respect and awareness of its impact. Alternatives like "I experienced sexual abuse" or "I was sexually assaulted" may be considered depending on the specific context and desired level of directness. Overall, responsible and thoughtful usage is essential when addressing this sensitive subject.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I experienced sexual abuse

Replaces "molested" with a broader term, "sexual abuse", which encompasses a range of unwanted sexual experiences.

I was sexually assaulted

Uses the term "sexually assaulted", which is a more direct and legalistic term for sexual violation.

I was a victim of sexual abuse

Emphasizes the victimhood and uses a broader term for the abuse experienced.

I suffered sexual abuse

Focuses on the suffering endured as a result of the sexual abuse.

I endured sexual violation

Highlights the violation aspect of the experience.

I was subjected to sexual exploitation

Uses the term "sexual exploitation", which indicates an abuse of power.

I was preyed upon

Implies a predatory dynamic in the abuse.

I was a survivor of sexual abuse

Focuses on the resilience and survivorship aspect of the experience.

I have a history of sexual abuse

Presents the abuse as part of one's past experiences.

I am a survivor

Shortened version, emphasizing survivorship, but requires context to understand the nature of what was survived.

FAQs

What's the most appropriate way to use the phrase "I was molested"?

Use "I was molested" in serious, sensitive contexts such as personal narratives, legal discussions, or therapeutic settings. Be mindful of your audience and the potential impact of your words.

Are there less direct alternatives to "I was molested"?

Yes, you can use alternatives like "I experienced sexual abuse" or "I was sexually assaulted" depending on the level of directness you want to convey.

Is it okay to use "I was molested" in a fictional story?

While it can be used in fiction, ensure it is handled with sensitivity and contributes meaningfully to the narrative. Consider the potential impact on readers.

What's the difference between "I was molested" and "I was sexually abused"?

The phrase "I was sexually abused" is broader and can encompass various forms of sexual mistreatment. "I was molested" typically refers to sexual abuse, particularly of a child.