it was exploring

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was exploring" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe an action that was taking place in the past, often in the context of discovery or investigation. Example: "The research team was excited because it was exploring new methods to improve renewable energy sources."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In a statement, the authority said it was exploring its options, including terminating Laro's other contracts.

The New York Times

On Dec. 20, the company said it was exploring its strategic options, effectively putting itself up for sale.

The New York Times

Arden shares have risen 14% since the company announced it was exploring its options.

Los Angeles Times

Wachovia said in February that it was exploring alternatives for its credit card business.

The New York Times

The Procter & Gamble Company said yesterday that it was exploring the sale of its Comet cleanser brand in North America.

The New York Times

The company also said that it was exploring "strategic alternatives" for its mortgage business, Residential Capital, indicating that the business may be sold.

The Washington Post

Ford also announced it was exploring putting Alexa into its cars.

TechCrunch

(On Friday, JPMorgan said it was exploring selling or spinning out its physical commodity business).

The New York Times

And on Wednesday, Regions Financial disclosed that it was exploring a potential sale of its Morgan Keegan brokerage firm.

The New York Times

Sara Lee had announced last month that it was exploring a possible sale of its European apparel business.

Forbes

Newco, On January 5, Barnes & Noble announced that it was exploring the strategic separation of its digital business in order to maximize shareholder value.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it was exploring", ensure the context clearly indicates what the subject was examining or considering. For instance, "The company was exploring new markets" is clearer than simply "It was exploring."

Common error

Avoid vague sentences where "it was exploring" lacks a clear object or purpose. Instead of saying "The team was exploring," specify what they were exploring, such as "The team was exploring alternative solutions."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was exploring" functions as a verb phrase indicating a past continuous action. It signifies that someone or something was in the process of investigating, considering, or examining something. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it was exploring" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe a past action of investigation or consideration. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. Predominantly found in News & Media, this phrase serves to inform about ongoing processes of discovery or evaluation. While generally neutral, its formality can be adjusted with alternative vocabulary. To ensure clarity, specify the object of exploration and avoid overuse in vague contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was investigating

Focuses more on a formal or official inquiry.

it was examining

Suggests a closer, more detailed inspection.

it was considering

Implies a thought process of evaluating options.

it was assessing

Highlights the evaluation of something's value or nature.

it was looking into

More informal way of saying investigating.

it was probing

Indicates a deeper, more intrusive investigation.

it was researching

Implies a systematic study.

it was studying

Focuses on learning and understanding through observation.

it was analyzing

Highlights the detailed examination of the elements or structure of something.

it was searching for

Emphasizes the act of trying to find something.

FAQs

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

You can use "it was exploring" to describe a past action of investigating or considering options. For example, "The committee "it was exploring" various proposals before making a decision."

What are some alternatives to "it was exploring"?

Alternatives include "it was investigating", "it was examining", or "it was considering", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "it was exploring" formal or informal?

"It was exploring" is generally neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though more formal alternatives like "it was investigating" may be preferred in some situations.

What is the difference between "it was exploring" and "it was discovering"?

"It was exploring" implies an active investigation or consideration, while "it was discovering" suggests finding something new or unexpected. The former is intentional, the latter often accidental.