it was cracked

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was cracked" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe an object that has a crack in it or has split apart. For example, "When I went to pick up the vase, I discovered that it was cracked."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

David R. Alvarez sold $14 million worth of stock in Providian Financial, where he is vice chairman, last year before the company acknowledged that its balance sheet wasn't quite what it was cracked up to be.

The New York Times

Combined with what has emerged about Britain's use of cluster munitions in built-up areas, these war crimes allegations create an impression that the conduct of the conflict, like its putative cause, may not have been all it was cracked up to be.

The Economist

It was cracked, leaking.

The Guardian

Next it was cracked ribs, a broken wrist.

The New Yorker

It was cracked and old and held his commutation book.

The New Yorker

PRODUCTIVITY is not what it was cracked up to be.

The New York Times

And like many before her, she found publishing not all it was cracked up to be.

The New York Times

Her big break wasn't all it was cracked up to be.

Independent

It was cracked, Connie saw, a long crack in the lid.

The New Yorker

"It was all it was cracked up to be," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

Is the online utopia all it was cracked up to be?

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the physical state of an object, ensure the context clearly indicates what "it" refers to. For example, "The vase fell, and it was cracked."

Common error

Avoid using "it was cracked" when the object is actually shattered or completely broken. "Cracked" implies a less severe form of damage.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was cracked" functions as a descriptive statement, indicating the past state of an object. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It usually serves to describe the state of being damaged. Examples from Ludwig show its application in describing various objects and situations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

77%

Science

13%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was cracked" is a grammatically correct and commonly used descriptive statement used across various contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its validity in written English. It mainly serves to describe a past state of damage or imperfection. The phrase appears most frequently in news and media sources. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly indicates what "it" refers to and that "cracked" accurately represents the extent of the damage. Alternatives like "it had a crack" or "it was fractured" may be more appropriate depending on the situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it had a crack

Focuses specifically on the presence of a crack.

it was fractured

Implies a more severe form of cracking, suggesting a break or split.

it sustained a crack

Emphasizes the event or process that led to the cracking.

it had a fissure

Similar to 'it showed fissures' but uses a simpler structure.

it showed fissures

Specifically refers to narrow openings or cracks.

it was damaged

A broader term indicating harm or impairment, not necessarily specifying a crack.

it was flawed

Highlights an imperfection or defect, which could be a crack.

it was impaired

Suggests that something's functionality is reduced due to damage, including possibly a crack.

it was broken

Indicates a complete separation or disintegration, a more extreme condition than just cracked.

it was imperfect

A general term for something not being in perfect condition; a crack could be one reason.

FAQs

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

Use "it was cracked" to describe an object that has a visible line or fissure on its surface. For example, "The mirror fell off the wall, and "it was cracked"."

What are some synonyms for "it was cracked"?

Alternatives to "it was cracked" include "it had a crack", "it was fractured", or "it was damaged", depending on the degree of damage you want to convey.

Is "it was cracked" the same as "it is cracked"?

"It was cracked" indicates the object was cracked in the past, while "it is cracked" describes its current state. The tense changes the focus of the sentence.

What's the difference between "it was cracked" and "it was broken"?

"It was cracked" implies a split or fissure, but the object remains largely intact. "It was broken" suggests the object is separated into pieces or severely damaged.