it was linked to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was linked to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate a connection or relationship between two or more things, often in a causal or associative context. Example: "The increase in pollution levels was linked to the rise in industrial activity in the area."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Forensic experts are working to establish its composition and whether it was linked to the attacks in the French capital.

The Guardian

From its beginning, at the end of the 18th century, it was linked to the political realm.

Annales Médico-psychologiques, revue psychiatrique

It was linked to 11 other ministries.

The Guardian

"We can now say it was linked to an area of North America.

The Guardian

Baycol was withdrawn in August 2001 after it was linked to more than 50 deaths worldwide.

The New York Times

Details of the incident, and whether it was linked to the protest, were not forthcoming.

The Guardian

"I wouldn't be surprised if it was linked to global warming somehow," Jeff says.

The Guardian

"I do think it was linked to some drug subculture of violence.

The New Yorker

It was only when Zika reached Brazil that it was linked to microcephaly.

The Guardian

It was linked to his computer and all the location services were enabled.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The Obama administration denied comment on whether it was linked to the blackouts.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it was linked to", ensure that the connection you are describing is clear and well-supported by evidence. Avoid making vague or unsubstantiated claims of association.

Common error

Be cautious about implying a direct causal relationship when the connection is merely correlational. Using phrases like "it was associated with" may be more appropriate when causality is not definitively proven.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was linked to" functions as a passive construction, indicating a connection or relationship between two entities. As evidenced by Ludwig, the phrase connects a subject with an action or event, suggesting a correlation without necessarily implying direct causation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

39%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was linked to" is a grammatically sound and very common construction used to indicate a relationship or connection between two elements. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is versatile, fitting for various contexts from news reporting to scientific analysis. While it denotes association, caution should be exercised not to overstate the strength of the connection as a direct causation, especially in contexts where definitive proof is lacking. Alternatives such as "it was associated with" can be used to convey a potentially weaker or less direct connection. Overall, understanding the nuances of this phrase and its appropriate use contributes to clear and accurate communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was associated with

Replaces "linked" with "associated", indicating a connection but possibly a weaker or less direct one.

it was connected to

Uses "connected" instead of "linked", suggesting a direct relationship or association.

it was related to

Employs "related" to show a relationship or connection, which can be broader than a direct link.

it was attributed to

Indicates that something was caused or influenced by something else, implying causality.

it was due to

Specifies a cause-and-effect relationship, indicating that something happened because of something else.

it stemmed from

Suggests that something originated or arose from a particular source or cause.

it was a consequence of

Highlights that something is the result or outcome of a particular event or action.

it derived from

Indicates that something is obtained or developed from a particular source or origin.

it resulted from

Similar to "due to", but emphasizes the outcome or effect of a specific cause.

it was born out of

Emphasizes the origin or creation of something as a result of specific circumstances or conditions.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "it was linked to"?

You can use alternatives like "it was associated with", "it was connected to", or "it was related to" depending on the context.

How do I use "it was linked to" in a sentence?

Use "it was linked to" to show a connection or association between two things. For example, "The increase in sales was linked to the new marketing campaign."

Is there a difference between "it was linked to" and "it was attributed to"?

"It was linked to" suggests a connection, while "it was attributed to" implies a cause-and-effect relationship. "It was linked to" is a more general term for any kind of connection.

When should I use "it was linked to" instead of "it caused"?

Use "it was linked to" when you want to show a connection or association without necessarily implying direct causation. If you have evidence that something directly caused something else, "it caused" is more appropriate.