it was returned

USAGE SUMMARY

"it was returned" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when talking about something that has been given back or brought back. For example, "The lost wallet was found and it was returned to its owner."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It was returned to its display before the next morning.

The New York Times - Science

In moments, it was returned to its track and the repair was done.

BBC

Carosello was greeted by cheers as it was returned to its Welsh Back plinth.

BBC

After being loaded with the pre-conditioning load, it was returned to its initial length.

BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders

After the rat entered all the baited arms, it was returned to its cage.

Behavioral and Brain Functions

It was returned to a single-family home by its current owners in 2002.

The New York Times

It was returned days later.

The New York Times

Twice it was returned.

The New York Times

It was returned, without comment.

The New York Times

It was returned to the mountains.

The New York Times

Each time, it was returned unopened.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it was returned", ensure the context clearly indicates what "it" refers to, avoiding ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "It was returned", specify "The book was returned".

Common error

Avoid using "it was returned" when the referent of "it" is unclear or has not been explicitly mentioned. Always ensure the pronoun has a clear antecedent in your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was returned" functions as a passive voice construction, indicating that something (represented by "it") underwent the action of being returned. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage and grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Encyclopedias

16%

Science

14%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was returned" is a grammatically sound and versatile passive voice construction used to express that something has been given back or restored. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is correct and widespread, particularly in contexts such as news reports, encyclopedia articles, and scientific publications. While it can be found across various registers, it generally maintains a neutral tone, making it suitable for objective and factual reporting. When employing this phrase, ensure the referent of "it" is clear to prevent any ambiguity. Alternative phrases such as ""it was given back"" or ""it was restored"" can be used depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was given back

Replaces "returned" with the more basic synonym "given back", simplifying the wording.

it was restored

Emphasizes the act of returning something to its original condition or place.

it was sent back

Focuses on the action of sending something to its origin.

it was handed back

Similar to "given back", but suggests a more personal or direct transfer.

it was shipped back

Specifically indicates that the item was returned via a shipping service.

it was brought back

Highlights the act of physically bringing something to its point of origin.

it was refunded

Specifically implies the return of money, often in exchange for a product.

it was reverted

Conveys a return to a previous state or condition.

it was relinquished

Emphasizes a more formal or official act of giving something back or ceding control.

it was repatriated

Indicates a return to one's country of origin, often used for people or artifacts.

FAQs

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

You can use "it was returned" to describe the action of giving something back. For example, "The library book was overdue, but "it was returned" before any fines were incurred."

What are some alternatives to saying "it was returned"?

Alternatives include "it was given back", "it was restored", or "it was sent back", depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "it was returned" or "it has been returned"?

Both are correct, but they imply different timeframes. "It was returned" refers to a completed action in the past, while "it has been returned" indicates an action completed recently with relevance to the present.

What's the difference between "it was returned" and "it is returned"?

"It was returned" is past tense, describing a completed action. "It is returned" is present tense, typically used in descriptions of processes or routines: "Every day, "it is returned" to its shelf after use."