it was devised

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was devised" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that has been created or planned, often in a formal or academic context. Example: "The new policy was implemented after it was devised by a committee of experts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It was devised by Ian Fleming and made its first screen appearance in "Dr. No," in 1962.

The New Yorker

However brutish the electric chair or gas chamber might appear by comparison, the only thing that truly sets lethal injection apart is that it was devised to mask what it was doing to its victims.

Huffington Post

It was devised by Mr. Ganson, a kinetic sculptor who worked on its fabrication with pupils from the Greater Lawrence Technical School.

The New York Times - Arts

It was devised by Barbara Machin.

The Guardian

It was devised as a game for both sexes.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It was devised to help gain a greater acceptance for self-service elevators.

The New Yorker

It was devised by a Danish physician, Hans Christian Gram, in 1884.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It was devised to punish the giving of bribes for obtaining or retaining business abroad.

The Economist

Expressing an idea of pattern, it was devised with mathematical algorithms.

The New York Times - Arts

It was devised to establish the extent of the drug culture in baseball.

The New York Times

"It had such a brilliant atmosphere and it was devised so cleverly.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing historical inventions, strategies, or systems, "it was devised" can add a sense of formality and precision to your writing.

Common error

While grammatically sound, "it was devised" can sound overly formal in casual conversations or informal writing. Choose simpler alternatives like "it was made up" or "it was created" for a more relaxed tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was devised" functions as a passive construction, indicating that something was created or invented through a deliberate process. Ludwig examples demonstrate its usage in various contexts, emphasizing the origin or development of a particular strategy, system, or invention. The Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was devised" is a grammatically sound and versatile passive construction used to describe the creation or invention of something, often emphasizing the ingenuity or planning behind it. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is correct and commonly used. While versatile, it's generally more appropriate for neutral to formal contexts, such as news reports, encyclopedic entries, and academic papers. Alternatives like "it was created" or "it was designed" may be more suitable for informal settings. Its high frequency in authoritative sources like The New York Times, The Guardian, and The Economist reinforces its credibility and widespread acceptance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was created

Focuses more broadly on the act of bringing something into existence, less specific about planning or invention.

it was designed

Emphasizes the planning and intention behind the creation, highlighting the purpose and structure.

it was invented

Highlights the originality and novelty of the creation, suggesting something entirely new was brought into being.

it was formulated

Suggests a more systematic and methodological approach to creation, often used in the context of plans or strategies.

it was developed

Implies a process of gradual improvement and refinement over time, rather than a singular act of creation.

it was conceived

Highlights the initial idea or concept from which something originated.

it was established

Focuses on the act of setting something up or putting it in place, emphasizing its formal existence.

it was pioneered

Emphasizes the innovative and groundbreaking nature of the creation, suggesting it was the first of its kind.

it was contrived

Suggests that something was artificially or elaborately created, perhaps in a way that seems forced or unnatural.

it was originated

Emphasizes the point of origin or beginning of something, often used to trace the roots of an idea or practice.

FAQs

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

Use "it was devised" to describe the process of creating or inventing something, particularly when emphasizing the planning or ingenuity involved. For example, "The strategy "it was devised" to improve efficiency".

What are some alternatives to "it was devised"?

You can use alternatives such as "it was created", "it was designed", or "it was invented", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "it was devised" formal or informal?

"It was devised" is generally considered a formal phrase, suitable for academic, professional, or news contexts. In more casual settings, simpler alternatives might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "it was devised" and "it was designed"?

While both phrases imply creation, ""it was devised"" emphasizes the ingenuity or planning behind the creation, whereas "it was designed" focuses more on the intended purpose and structure.