it was clear that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'it was clear that' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it as a transition phrase to introduce a conclusion or opinion, typically one that is based on facts. For example: "It was clear that the new plan was a success.", or "From the results of the experiment, it was clear that the hypothesis was correct."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But it was clear that bipartisanship had its limits.

The New York Times

It was clear that they were fragile.

The New York Times

"It was clear that N.J.

The New York Times

It was clear that he didn't care.

The New Yorker

It was clear that he was vulnerable.

The Guardian

It was clear that she needed Gardner.

The Guardian - Sport

It was clear that he disliked me, too.

The New Yorker

It was clear that the sensation was agreeable.

The New Yorker

Often, it was clear that Bernanke and Paulson were improvising.

The New Yorker

It was clear that Cook, particularly, had an open mind.

Independent

It was clear that she had been fond of him.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it was clear that", ensure that the clarity you assert is justifiable based on the context provided. Avoid using it to introduce opinions without sufficient support.

Common error

Avoid using "it was clear that" when the situation is actually ambiguous or requires further explanation. Doing so can undermine your credibility and confuse readers. If there's room for interpretation, use phrases that convey less certainty.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "it was clear that" is as a transitional phrase introducing a clause that expresses a deduction or obvious conclusion. The phrase links preceding information to a logical result, as supported by Ludwig AI and its analysis of numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it was clear that" is a versatile phrase used to introduce conclusions based on evident information. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While generally neutral in tone, it's important to avoid overstating clarity when ambiguity exists. Alternatives like "it became apparent that" and "it was evident that" offer nuanced substitutes. Mastering the use of "it was clear that" enhances your ability to convey direct and logical connections between facts and conclusions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it became apparent that

Focuses on the process of becoming clear over time.

it was evident that

Similar in meaning, but emphasizes the obviousness of the conclusion.

it was obvious that

Highlights the lack of doubt or ambiguity.

it was apparent that

Stresses the visibility and ease of understanding.

it was undeniable that

Emphasizes the impossibility of contesting the conclusion.

it was certain that

Conveys a strong sense of confidence and lack of uncertainty.

it seemed clear that

Indicates a perception of clarity, potentially less definitive.

it was understood that

Implies a shared or previously established understanding.

the evidence suggested that

Directly links the conclusion to supporting evidence.

the facts indicated that

Emphasizes the role of objective facts in reaching the conclusion.

FAQs

What does "it was clear that" mean?

The phrase "it was clear that" indicates that something became easily understood or obvious based on the available information or context. It's used to introduce a conclusion or deduction.

What can I say instead of "it was clear that"?

You can use alternatives like "it became apparent that", "it was evident that", or "it was obvious that" depending on the context.

How to use "it was clear that" in a sentence?

Use "it was clear that" to connect evidence or observations to a logical conclusion. For example, "After reviewing the data, it was clear that the new strategy was effective."

Is "it was clear that" formal or informal?

"It was clear that" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, providing a neutral way to introduce a conclusion based on evidence.