it was characterised

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was characterised" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing the defining features or qualities of something in a past context. Example: "The project was successful because it was characterised by innovative ideas and strong teamwork."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

It was characterised by two conflicting aims.

The Economist

It was characterised by clashes between the two on inheritance tax and spending cuts.

The Guardian

It was characterised by a profound lack of ambition, concealed by spin, forever a government of gesture rather than substance.

The Guardian - Opinion

It was characterised by the use of stone tools and weapons, which early hunters used for finding food.

The Guardian

It was characterised by TGA, DSC, FTIR spectroscopy and impedance spectroscopy.

Electrochimica Acta

It was characterised by furious Liberal Democrat outrider Lord Oakeshott as a "weak, waffly aspiration with vast wiggle-room".

The Guardian - Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

It is characterised by a fear of silence.

The Guardian - Books

It is characterised, like all her work, with love.

The Guardian

It's characterised by feeling optimistic, having more energy and feeling mentally sharper and more creative.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is characterised by changes in memory, behaviour and personality, difficulty thinking and reasoning.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is characterised by extremely low power dissipation, small noise and size.

Nuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research Section A: Accelerators, Spectrometers, Detectors and Associated Equipment

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it was characterised", ensure the subject is clearly defined and the characteristics you are describing are specific and relevant to the context.

Common error

Avoid using "it was characterised" with vague or overly broad descriptions. Instead, provide concrete details and specific attributes that define the subject.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was characterised" functions as a descriptive tool, primarily used to outline the key features or defining attributes of a subject or event. As shown in Ludwig, this passive construction is widely applicable across numerous contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

32%

News & Media

30%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was characterised" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to describe the defining attributes of a subject. As Ludwig AI confirms, this construction is widely employed across diverse fields, particularly in science, news, and academic contexts. While effective, writers should ensure clarity and specificity in their descriptions, avoiding overgeneralizations. Alternatives like "it was defined by" and "it was marked by" offer nuanced ways to convey similar meanings. The frequent appearance of this phrase in reputable sources underscores its reliability as a descriptive tool.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was defined by

This focuses on defining qualities, implying a more formal or precise characterization.

it was distinguished by

This emphasizes qualities that made something unique or set it apart.

it was marked by

This highlights notable or distinctive features that stood out.

it was known for

This emphasizes qualities for which something gained recognition or fame.

it embodied

This implies representing or being an expression of certain qualities.

it featured

This points out specific elements or components that it included.

it displayed

This focuses on showing certain qualities or attributes.

it consisted of

This describes the components or elements that made up the whole.

it encompassed

This suggests including or containing a wide range of elements or aspects.

it involved

This suggests a process or activities included as part of something.

FAQs

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

Use "it was characterised" to describe the defining features or qualities of something in a past context. For instance, "The meeting was productive because "it was characterised" by open communication and collaborative problem-solving".

What's a more formal alternative to "it was characterised"?

A more formal alternative could be "it was defined by". This phrase lends a sense of precision and clarity when outlining the key attributes of a subject.

How does "it was characterised" differ from "it was known for"?

"It was characterised" describes the essential qualities of something, while "it was known for" highlights qualities that brought it recognition. The former is descriptive; the latter is about reputation.

Can "it was characterised" be used in contexts other than past events?

While typically used in the past tense, ""it was characterised"" can refer to ongoing qualities viewed from a past perspective. However, using the present tense ("it is characterised") is more appropriate for current characteristics.