it was learned that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was learned that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when someone has obtained knowledge about something. For example, "It was learned that the students had not been given the correct exam instructions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

After that attack, it was learned that terrorism suspects had discussed attacks against judges.

The Guardian

Another F.B.I. memorandum from the period states only that during the Kansas City meeting, "it was learned that John Kerry and two others had resigned".

The New York Times

It was learned that several Democrats were under consideration for high positions, including Cabinet posts.

The New Yorker

In 1985 it was learned that Mengele drowned at a secret refuge in Brazil in 1979.

The New York Times - Arts

Especially when it was learned that taxpayers were going to foot the bill for future cleanups.

The New York Times

And then, grievously, it was learned that his colon cancer may have returned.

The New York Times - Sports

There was rejoicing when it was learned that the women had been freed.

The New York Times

Malaria was "discovered" when it was learned that it responded to quinine.

The New Yorker

It was learned that the drug was stanozolol, a potent steroid not found in supplements.

The New York Times

He dropped out when it was learned that he had paid a nanny off the books.

The New York Times

From sources at the docks, it was learned that he had gone to Jersey.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it was learned that" to introduce facts or information obtained through a process of discovery or investigation. It is particularly useful when you want to emphasize that the information was not previously known or obvious.

Common error

While "it was learned that" is grammatically sound, excessive use can make writing sound passive and stilted. In less formal contexts, consider more direct alternatives such as "we found out that" or "I discovered that" to maintain a conversational tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was learned that" functions as an introductory clause to report new or previously unknown information. As demonstrated by Ludwig, this phrase is frequently used to introduce facts discovered through investigation, research, or observation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Science

27%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

1%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it was learned that" is a grammatically correct and versatile phrase used to introduce newly discovered or confirmed information. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use across various contexts, particularly in news, scientific, and encyclopedic sources. While highly functional, consider the tone and formality of your writing; in less formal settings, more direct alternatives might be preferable. By understanding its function and context, you can effectively use "it was learned that" to convey information with clarity and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was discovered that

Emphasizes the element of uncovering something previously unknown.

it was revealed that

Highlights the act of making something known or public.

it became known that

Focuses on the process of something entering general awareness.

it transpired that

Suggests that something became apparent over time, often unexpectedly.

it emerged that

Implies a gradual unveiling of information.

it was found that

Indicates that information was located or determined through investigation.

it was understood that

Focuses on the comprehension or realization of something.

it was ascertained that

Highlights a process of careful investigation and confirmation.

it was determined that

Indicates that a conclusion was reached after considering the available information.

it was realized that

Highlights the moment of becoming aware or understanding something.

FAQs

What are some alternatives to "it was learned that"?

You can use alternatives like "it was discovered that", "it was revealed that", or "it became known that" depending on the context.

How can I make my writing less passive when using "it was learned that"?

To make your writing less passive, consider restructuring the sentence to emphasize the actor. For instance, instead of "It was learned that the company had financial troubles", try "Researchers learned that the company had financial troubles".

Is "it was learnt that" also correct?

Yes, "it was learnt that" is the British English equivalent of "it was learned that". Both are grammatically correct, but "learned" is more common in American English.

When is it best to use "it was learned that"?

Use "it was learned that" when you want to introduce information that has come to light through investigation, study, or discovery. It's particularly useful in formal writing or when emphasizing the process of obtaining the information.