it was gutted

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was gutted" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that has been completely removed or stripped of its contents, often referring to a physical object or a place. Example: "After the fire, the old warehouse was left in ruins; it was gutted and all that remained were the charred walls."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

Despite its hits, it was gutted and eventually bankrupted in 1975 after bad partnership deals with major labels.

The New York Times

Mr. Della Volpe said the Latex Foam factory was the city's second largest taxpayer at around $140,000 a year and its biggest employer with 250 jobs before it was gutted by fire in May 2001.

The New York Times

It was gutted, the furniture destroyed.

The Washington Post

It was later a vegetable market, but in 2006 it was gutted by fire.

The New York Times

Firefighters pulled 30 people from the building before it was gutted by fire.

The New York Times

Badly neglected, it was gutted and rebuilt with the addition of a small day care center.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

"It was gut-wrenching.

The Washington Post

It was gutting and it was awful.

Huffington Post

"The interior looks like it is gutted.

BBC

It is gutted..

Vice

It is gut-churning.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it was gutted" to vividly describe situations where something has been thoroughly emptied or severely damaged, often by fire or other destructive forces. This phrase is particularly effective when emphasizing the extent of the damage or loss.

Common error

Avoid using "it was gutted" in situations where the damage is minor or superficial. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact and make your writing sound melodramatic. Choose more appropriate language to reflect the true extent of the damage.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was gutted" functions as a passive construction, indicating that the subject (it) underwent an action (being gutted) performed by an unspecified agent. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Wiki

1%

Academia

1%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it was gutted" is a common and grammatically correct passive construction used to describe something that has been severely damaged or emptied, as affirmed by Ludwig AI. Primarily found in news and media contexts, it effectively conveys a sense of thorough destruction or removal. While versatile, it's best used when the damage is significant to avoid being overly dramatic. Alternative phrases like "it was destroyed" or "it was ravaged" can provide similar meanings with slight nuances. Understanding its appropriate use ensures clear and impactful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was destroyed

Emphasizes complete ruin and loss of functionality.

it was ravaged

Highlights the violence and destructive nature of the event.

it was emptied

Focuses on the removal of contents, leaving the structure bare.

it was demolished

Implies a deliberate act of destruction, often for rebuilding.

it was ruined

Indicates severe damage rendering something unusable or spoiled.

it was devastated

Stresses the emotional impact and widespread destruction.

it was stripped bare

Highlights the act of removing everything, leaving nothing behind.

it was wiped out

Suggests a complete and utter annihilation.

it was consumed

Implies something was completely used up or destroyed, often by fire.

it was left in ruins

Describes the aftermath, focusing on the state of disrepair.

FAQs

What does "it was gutted" mean?

The phrase "it was gutted" means that something has been severely damaged or emptied, often by fire or other destructive forces. It suggests that the interior or contents have been completely removed or destroyed.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "it was gutted"?

Use "it was gutted" when you want to emphasize the extent of damage or emptiness. It's suitable when describing buildings destroyed by fire, programs stripped of funding, or anything that has been thoroughly emptied or ruined.

What are some alternatives to "it was gutted"?

Alternatives include "it was destroyed", "it was ravaged", or "it was emptied", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

Example: "After the fire, the historic building "it was gutted", leaving only the outer walls standing."