it was calm

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was calm" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation or environment that is peaceful or free from disturbance. Example: "As the sun set over the lake, it was calm, creating a perfect backdrop for reflection."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

"It was calm.

The New Yorker

It was calm and mild.

The Guardian

It was calm and without pomposity.

The Guardian - Opinion

Well, at the beginning it was calm.

The Guardian

Then, eerily, it was calm again.

The New York Times

"It was calm and under control".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

It was calmer early.

The New Yorker

It was calmer in the kitchen.

The New Yorker

It's calm.

The New York Times - Magazine

It is calm.

Independent

Now it's calm.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it was calm" to describe a scene or situation devoid of disturbance, noise, or strong emotions. This phrase is effective in setting a peaceful or neutral tone in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "it was calm" to describe a situation immediately following a traumatic event, as it may come across as insensitive or lacking empathy. In such cases, consider using phrases that acknowledge the preceding turmoil while still conveying a sense of settling, such as "the initial shock subsided" or "a fragile peace descended".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was calm" primarily functions as a descriptive statement. It predicates a state of tranquility or lack of disturbance to a specific subject, often a situation, environment, or even a person. Ludwig examples illustrate this function in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it was calm" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a peaceful or undisturbed state. As shown by Ludwig, it's frequently used in news and media to depict situations devoid of turmoil. While versatile, it's important to consider the context and avoid using it insensitively after traumatic events. For alternative phrasing, consider options like ""it was peaceful"" or "the atmosphere was tranquil" to fine-tune the intended meaning. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's validity, making it a reliable choice for clear and concise communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the atmosphere was tranquil

Focuses on the peaceful atmosphere rather than a specific subject.

the situation was peaceful

Emphasizes the lack of conflict or disturbance in a particular situation.

everything was still

Highlights the absence of movement or activity.

there was serenity

Uses a more abstract noun to describe the calmness.

peace prevailed

Suggests calmness as the dominant condition after a period of potential conflict.

a sense of quiet settled

Describes the onset of calmness, highlighting its gradual nature.

the air was undisturbed

Emphasizes the lack of any disruptive influence.

all was hushed

Focuses on the absence of noise as a key component of calmness.

the tumult subsided

Implies calmness resulting from the end of a period of unrest.

tranquility reigned

Similar to "peace prevailed", but with a stronger, more formal tone.

FAQs

What does "it was calm" mean?

The phrase "it was calm" describes a state or situation characterized by the absence of disturbance, agitation, or excitement. It suggests a peaceful and uneventful condition.

What can I say instead of "it was calm"?

You can use alternatives like "it was peaceful", "it was tranquil", or "it was serene" to convey a similar meaning, depending on the nuance you wish to express.

How to use "it was calm" in a sentence?

You can use "it was calm" to describe the weather, a place, a situation, or even someone's demeanor. For example: "After the storm passed, "it was calm" and sunny", or "Despite the chaos, "it was calm" inside the library".

Is "it was calm" formal or informal?

"It was calm" is generally considered a neutral expression and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though more formal alternatives might be preferred in certain professional or academic settings.