it was employed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was employed" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the use of a method, tool, or technique in a specific context. Example: "In the study, a new statistical method was employed to analyze the data."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

When it was employed as an index test its sensitivity was generally low while its specificity was generally high.

Plosone

The call centre confirmed it was employed by the party, but denied canvassing on its behalf.

The Guardian

It was employed most extensively by British European Airways.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Because quinine was effective against malaria, it was employed, too.

The New York Times - Books

It was employed last in the Gulf War.

The New York Times

In Egypt it was employed as an embalming material.

Britannica

It was employed in everyday life and served ritualistic purposes, also as funerary objects.

Princeton University

He did not name the company, but said it was employed by "foreigners".

The New York Times

After that, it was employed on a larger scale, especially to detect feeblemindedness.

The New Yorker

More recently, it was employed as a canvas by notable graffiti and installation artists.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Its use isn't solely commercial; it's employed in network programming now & has been for years.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it was employed", ensure that the context clearly indicates what "it" refers to. This avoids ambiguity and maintains clarity in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "it was employed" in situations where a simpler phrase like "it was used" would suffice. Overusing formal language can make your writing sound stilted or unnatural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was employed" functions as a passive construction, indicating that a particular object, method, or strategy was utilized or put into service by an unspecified agent. Ludwig AI validates the grammatical correctness and wide applicability of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

46%

News & Media

24%

Encyclopedias

17%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Academia

7%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was employed" is a grammatically sound and frequently used passive construction that signals the utilization of something for a particular purpose. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread use across various domains. While versatile, "it was employed" carries a formal tone and is most commonly found in science, news, and encyclopedia contexts. To maintain clarity and avoid unnecessary formality, consider simpler alternatives like "it was used" or "it was utilized" depending on your intended audience and the specific context of your writing. Remember to ensure clarity by explicitly defining the subject being employed to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was utilized

Synonymous with "it was employed", emphasizing practical use.

it was used

A more common and general substitute for "it was employed".

it was implemented

Focuses on the action of putting a plan or system into effect.

it was applied

Suggests a specific application or adaptation for a purpose.

it was leveraged

Implies using something to maximum advantage.

it was exercised

Highlights the act of using a right, power, or quality.

it was administered

Refers to the formal management or application of something.

it was brought to bear

Indicates that something was brought into action or influence.

it was put into service

Emphasizes the commencement of use for a specific function.

it was harnessed

Focuses on controlling and making use of natural resources, especially to produce energy.

FAQs

What is a simpler alternative to "it was employed"?

A simpler and more common alternative is "it was used". Consider the context to determine if the formality of "it was employed" is necessary.

How can I avoid overuse of "it was employed" in my writing?

Vary your vocabulary by using synonyms like "it was utilized", "it was implemented", or "it was applied" to keep your writing engaging.

Is "it was employed" suitable for informal writing?

While grammatically correct, "it was employed" is more formal. In informal contexts, consider using "it was used" as a more natural-sounding alternative.

What's the difference between "it was employed" and "it was deployed"?

"It was employed" generally means something was used. "It was deployed" often refers to positioning resources or personnel strategically, especially in military or technical contexts.