it was murdered

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was murdered" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in contexts discussing a crime, a violent act, or metaphorically to describe the destruction of something. Example: "The investigation revealed that the victim was found in the alley, and it was murdered in cold blood."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

But for new workers, such loyalty is often missing in the employer-employee scene, and it didn't die of its own volition; it was murdered by the actions of employers.

The New York Times

For its birthday present, you will solve the mystery of how it was murdered and, unfortunately, because it will have now found closure, it will leave you.

The New Yorker

But hitching didn't die a natural death — it was murdered.

The New York Times

Several chapters evoke Bosnian normality before it was murdered in 1992.

Independent

We thought it was murdered, trampled, buried, thrown in the dungeon, at least since 1981".

The New Yorker

It was murdered … New artists that stand the test of time … whose art can survive them, who become icons, are so rare as to almost be nonexistent".

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

It was murdering us.

The Guardian

Myriad times a day it is murdered by novice piano students, only to rise up again.

The New Yorker

It was murder.

The New York Times

So it was murder.

The Guardian - Books

It was murder, war.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it was murdered" to add emphasis when describing the abrupt and often unjust ending of something, whether tangible or abstract. The phrase carries a strong emotional charge and should be used judiciously for maximum impact.

Common error

Avoid using "it was murdered" when a more neutral term like "killed" or "destroyed" would be more appropriate. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact and make your writing sound melodramatic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was murdered" functions as a passive voice construction, indicating that something (the 'it') was the victim of a violent act or a metaphorically destructive event. Ludwig provides examples ranging from literal interpretations to more abstract scenarios.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

13%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was murdered" is a grammatically sound and emotionally charged way to describe the abrupt end of something. While Ludwig confirms its correctness and provides diverse examples, it's important to consider the context and desired tone when using this phrase. While prevalent in news and media, more neutral terms may be preferable in formal or business settings. Keep in mind that overuse can diminish its impact, so judicious use is recommended.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was assassinated

Replaces "murdered" with "assassinated", emphasizing a planned and targeted killing, often of a person of importance.

it was slain

A more archaic and dramatic synonym for "murdered", suggesting a violent and decisive killing.

it was extinguished

Implies that something was put to an end, often used metaphorically for ideas or movements.

it was terminated

A more formal and neutral term for ending something, often used in business or legal contexts.

it was eliminated

Suggests removal or eradication, often used for problems or threats.

it was destroyed

Indicates that something was ruined or broken beyond repair.

it was crushed

Implies overwhelming force or defeat.

it was sabotaged

Suggests that something was deliberately undermined or ruined.

it was suppressed

Indicates that something was forcibly prevented from developing or being expressed.

it was wiped out

Implies complete and utter destruction or removal.

FAQs

How can "it was murdered" be used in a sentence?

The phrase "it was murdered" can be used to describe the violent or abrupt end of something. For instance, "The project was promising, but "it was murdered" by budget cuts".

What's a more neutral alternative to "it was murdered"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "it was killed", "it was destroyed", or "it was terminated". The best choice depends on the level of formality and the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "it was murdered" suitable for formal writing?

The phrase "it was murdered" is generally not suitable for formal writing due to its strong emotional connotation. In formal contexts, consider using more neutral alternatives like "it was eliminated" or "it was canceled".

When is it appropriate to use "it was murdered" metaphorically?

It is appropriate to use "it was murdered" metaphorically when you want to emphasize the sudden, violent, and unjust nature of something's end. For example, "The politician's career "it was murdered" by the scandal".