it was a combination

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was a combination" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing a situation or outcome that resulted from multiple elements or factors coming together. Example: "The success of the project was not due to a single factor; it was a combination of teamwork, dedication, and innovative ideas."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

It was a combination".

The New York Times - Sports

Oh, it was a combination of both.

The New York Times - Magazine

"It was a combination of factors.

Independent

A. It was a combination of things.

The New York Times

"It was a combination of things.

The New York Times - Sports

It was a combination of all those".

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

Fabiano: It is a combination.

The New York Times

Usually it is a combination of both.

The New York Times - Arts

It is a combination of factors.

Independent

It's a combination of both.

The New York Times

It is a combination of both.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it was a combination", ensure the context clearly identifies the elements being combined to avoid ambiguity. Be specific about which elements are relevant to the outcome you are describing.

Common error

Avoid using "it was a combination" without specifying what elements comprised the combination. For instance, instead of saying, "The project failed; it was a combination of things", clarify by stating, "The project failed due to a combination of poor planning and insufficient resources."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was a combination" functions as a statement of cause or explanation. Ludwig AI indicates that it is used to attribute a result or outcome to multiple factors working together. It introduces the idea that no single cause is solely responsible.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Academia

18%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it was a combination" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to indicate that a situation resulted from multiple factors. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability in written English. It is frequently found in news and media sources but also appears in academic contexts. To use this phrase effectively, ensure that the contributing elements are clearly specified to avoid vagueness. Alternatives include phrases like "it was a mix of factors" or "multiple factors were responsible". By providing context and avoiding ambiguity, you can leverage "it was a combination" to offer nuanced and comprehensive explanations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was a mix of factors

Replaces 'combination' with 'mix', emphasizing a blend of elements.

it was a blend of elements

Substitutes 'combination' with 'blend', highlighting a smooth integration of different parts.

it resulted from a confluence

Uses 'confluence' to suggest a flowing together of influences, more formal.

it stemmed from a convergence

Employs 'convergence' to indicate different things coming together at one point, more formal.

it was attributable to several causes

Focuses on causality, attributing the outcome to multiple reasons.

multiple factors were responsible

Highlights responsibility being shared among various factors.

various aspects played a role

Emphasizes the contribution of different aspects without specifying direct causation.

it was due to a multitude of reasons

Indicates a large number of reasons contributing to the outcome.

the outcome was multifaceted

Suggests that the result had many sides or aspects contributing to it.

a variety of things contributed

Uses 'variety' to show a diverse set of contributors.

FAQs

How can I use "it was a combination" in a sentence?

Use "it was a combination" to indicate that multiple factors contributed to a particular result. For example, "The success of the event, "it was a combination" of excellent planning and dedicated volunteers."

What phrases are similar to "it was a combination"?

Alternatives include phrases like "it was a mix of factors", "it resulted from a confluence", or "multiple factors were responsible", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to list the individual factors after stating "it was a combination"?

Yes, providing specific details after saying ""it was a combination"" enhances clarity and provides more information for the reader. For example: "The company's success, "it was a combination" of innovative marketing, strong leadership, and dedicated employees."

How can I avoid vagueness when using "it was a combination"?

To avoid vagueness, ensure you clearly specify the elements that made up the combination. Instead of ""it was a combination" of things", try ""it was a combination" of experience and luck."