it was admirable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was admirable" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express approval or respect for someone's actions or qualities in a past context. Example: "Her dedication to volunteering every weekend was admirable and inspired many in the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

He thought it was admirable, and so did Irving.

The New Yorker

Still, it was admirable that Romney followed through.

The New York Times

Your voting was more than ethical; it was admirable.

The New York Times - Magazine

It wasn't that it was admirable – but it was fascinating".

The Guardian - Books

2) The fact that the press's feeding frenzy was predictable, however, doesn't mean it was admirable.

The New York Times

It was admirable of him to put it on the political agenda.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

It's admirable in its theme but it never comes alive in Brothers Grimm fashion.

The New York Times - Books

PREMINGER: It is admirable.

The New Yorker

I think it's admirable.

The Guardian - Arts

It is admirable, in a way.

The Economist

It's admirable in a way.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context when choosing between "it was admirable" and its alternatives to ensure the phrase aligns with the intended tone and formality.

Common error

While grammatically correct, using "it was admirable" in extremely casual conversations might sound overly formal. Opt for simpler expressions like "that's great" or "good job" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was admirable" functions as a declarative statement expressing approval or respect for a past action, quality, or behavior. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its usability, as demonstrated in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Science

9%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was admirable" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to convey approval and respect. According to Ludwig, it functions as a declarative statement, predominantly found in news and media contexts. While its formality can vary, it's important to consider the setting to ensure appropriate usage. As highlighted in Ludwig AI's analysis, using the phrase effectively involves recognizing its nuances and choosing it when you genuinely want to express strong, positive regard for a past action or quality. Alternatives like "it was commendable" or "it was impressive" can provide similar meanings with slight shifts in tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was commendable

This alternative suggests praise and approval for an action or quality but may imply a slightly more formal context.

it was praiseworthy

Similar to 'commendable', but emphasizes the deserving nature of the praise.

it was laudable

This suggests the action deserves high praise and public recognition.

it was impressive

Focuses on the skill or impact of the action, rather than its moral quality.

it was remarkable

Highlights the unusual or exceptional nature of the action.

it was estimable

Emphasizes the worthiness of respect and admiration, often in a more formal context.

it was respectable

Suggests the action is worthy of being respected, though perhaps not necessarily admired.

it was creditable

Implies the action is deserving of acknowledgment for its merit or effort.

it was exemplary

Suggests the action serves as a good example for others to follow.

it was honorable

Emphasizes the ethical and moral value of the action.

FAQs

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

You can use "it was admirable" to express your approval or respect for someone's actions or qualities in a past context. For example, "It was admirable how she handled the difficult situation with grace and composure."

What are some alternatives to "it was admirable"?

You can use alternatives such as "it was commendable", "it was praiseworthy", or "it was impressive" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "it is admirable" or "it was admirable" more appropriate?

Use "it is admirable" to describe something that is currently praiseworthy. Use "it was admirable" to describe something that occurred in the past.

What's the difference between "it was admirable" and "it was good"?

"It was admirable" implies a higher level of respect and approval, often suggesting moral or exceptional qualities. "It was good" is a more general and less emphatic expression of approval.