it is started

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is started" is grammatically correct but may not be commonly used in written English.
You can use it in contexts where you want to indicate that something has begun, often in a passive construction. Example: "The project is important, and it is started as soon as the funding is secured."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

This is especially helpful if your Bittorrent client randomizes its port each time it is started.

WikiHow

ObsVis performs ds9 version check whenever it is started.

Harvard University

"It is started already, the agents are working," he said.

Independent

The format is almost identical to the download recipes data string except it is started by *.

Cornell University

It is started by pre-detecting the disparity priors, on which a new cost volume is built for disparity assignment.

Pattern Recognition Letters

When it is started up, the city's parking app warns drivers not to use the system while in motion.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

It is starting already.

The Economist

Maybe it is starting to.

The Economist

It is starting to be marketable.

The Guardian - Tech

But it is starting to try.

The Economist

It is starting to resort to force.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it is started", ensure the subject of "it" is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of "It is started by pre-detecting...", clarify: "The process is started by pre-detecting...".

Common error

Avoid using "it is started" when the active voice would be more direct and concise. For instance, instead of "The engine must be disconnected when it is started", consider "Disconnect the engine when starting it".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is started" typically functions as the predicate of a passive sentence, indicating the commencement of an action or process affecting the subject 'it'. Ludwig indicates the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

25%

Academia

17%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is started" is a grammatically sound and commonly used passive construction that indicates the beginning of a process or action. According to Ludwig, while grammatically correct, active voice alternatives can often provide more directness. The phrase is prevalent in scientific, news, and academic contexts, appearing in sources like The New York Times and academic journals. While versatile, writers should consider whether active voice or synonyms such as "it begins" or "it is initiated" may provide greater clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it has begun

Emphasizes the completion of the initial phase or the commencement of the process.

it is initiated

Highlights the formal or official commencement of something.

it is launched

Implies a public or significant start, often associated with projects or products.

it gets underway

Suggests the start of a journey or process, often with a sense of momentum.

it commences

A formal way of saying something begins, often used in official or legal contexts.

it originates

Focuses on the source or point of origin of something.

it is activated

Highlights the action of making something active or operational.

it is triggered

Suggests that something is started by a specific event or condition.

it is implemented

Highlights the action of putting a plan or system into effect.

it sparks off

Suggests a sudden or forceful start, often associated with conflict or excitement.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "it is started" to sound more active?

Consider using alternatives like "it begins", "it commences", or stating who or what is initiating the action for a more direct tone.

In what contexts is "it is started" most appropriate?

The phrase "it is started" is suitable when emphasizing the beginning of a process or activity, particularly in technical, medical, or formal contexts. However, assess whether a more active construction would improve clarity.

What are some common synonyms for "it is started"?

Synonyms include "it is initiated", "it is launched", "it gets underway", or simply "it begins", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is there a difference between saying "it is started" and "it starts"?

Yes, "it is started" is passive, emphasizing the action being done to "it". "It starts" is active, focusing on "it" as the initiator of the action. The choice depends on whether you want to highlight the action or the subject performing it.