it was executing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was executing" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing an action that was in progress or being carried out in the past, often in a technical or programming context. Example: "The program was running smoothly until it was executing a complex algorithm that caused it to crash."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

A preempted sub-task is assumed to resume its execution on the same core as the one on which it was executing prior to preemption.

EURASIP Journal on Embedded Systems

He said the fact that the Justice Department had Dr. Ivins under investigation for perhaps two years or longer — and that it was executing search warrants in the case even after his death — suggests that the department itself had doubts.

The New York Times

The Department of Justice confirmed to The Huffington Post after the raid that it was executing a search warrant on The Farmacy dispensary in Los Angeles, but said the warrant was under seal and it could not comment further.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

He added that the car may well accomplish its task because it was executed well.

Huffington Post

Credited to Jeff Koons, it was executed in "1995-2004".

The New York Times - Arts

If that was his plan, it was executed with perfection.

The Guardian - Sport

It has rarely been out of production since it was executed.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Mr. Bloom said the success of the new program hinged on how thoughtfully it was executed.

The New York Times

But how he admired the art of the scam, when it was executed to perfection.

The New York Times

True, it was executed by Navy Seals, ultimately part of the Pentagon.

Independent

It wasn't a complicated dish but it was executed just right.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a process or program in action, use "it was executing" to convey that the process was actively running or carrying out its intended function. This is particularly effective in technical or formal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "it was executing" in casual conversations or informal writing. Simpler alternatives like "it was running" or "it was doing" are often more appropriate and natural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was executing" functions as part of a clause within a sentence, indicating that a particular process or action was actively in progress at a specific time in the past. Ludwig confirms the appropriateness of this usage.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

67%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was executing" is grammatically correct and describes an action or process in progress during a past time. Ludwig AI confirms its valid usage, especially in technical and formal contexts such as science, news, and formal business settings. While versatile, it’s less suitable for informal situations, where alternatives like "it was running" might be a better fit. The phrase is relatively rare, suggesting that more common alternatives are often preferred. Remember to use this phrase when you specifically want to emphasize that a process or action was actively being carried out.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was performing

Focuses on the action of carrying out a task, similar to executing but less technical.

it was running

Implies a continuous operation, akin to executing but emphasizes ongoing activity.

it was carrying out

Highlights the act of performing a specific duty or task.

it was implementing

Focuses on putting a plan or method into effect.

it was enacting

Suggests the process of putting something into law or action.

it was fulfilling

Emphasizes the completion or achievement of something.

it was prosecuting

Implies pursuing a legal case or action.

it was discharging

Suggests the act of performing a duty or responsibility.

it was achieving

Focuses on the successful accomplishment of a goal.

it was finalizing

Highlights the act of bringing something to a completed state.

FAQs

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

Use "it was executing" to describe a process or program that was actively running or carrying out its function. For example, "The system crashed while "it was executing" a complex calculation."

What are some alternatives to "it was executing"?

Alternatives include "it was running", "it was performing", or "it was carrying out", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "it was executing" formal or informal?

"It was executing" is generally more formal and technical. For informal contexts, simpler phrases like "it was doing" or "it was working on" may be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "it was executing" and "it was implemented"?

"It was executing" implies that something was actively running or in the process of being carried out. "It was implemented", on the other hand, suggests that something was put into effect or put into practice. So, "it was executing" describes the action of running, while "it was implemented" describes the action of putting something into effect.