it was saying

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was saying" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that was expressed or communicated in the past, often in a narrative or descriptive context. Example: "As I read the old letter, I could almost hear it was saying that everything would be alright."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

With its arms up, it was saying, 'Here I am.' A sort of hieratic gesture.

The Guardian - Arts

What, it was saying in its silent way, do you want from life?

Vice

When CBO did its analysis and said that Obamacare would lead to some reduction in work hours, it was saying the ACA would have its intended effect.

Huffington Post

With coal, direct action had an absolutely critical effect in awakening the Government to the contradictions between what it was saying about the need for carbon reductions and its apparent complacency in the face of power industry proposals for new coal-burning power stations".

Independent

It was saying, 'I'm not prudish'.

Independent

It's time, it was saying to Max.

The New Yorker

They thought it was saying the wrong thing about them".

Independent

"It was saying, our best defense is to stay vulnerable".

The New York Times

"Basically, it was saying, 'Dear Appy, How committed are you?

The New Yorker

More likely it was saying you ain't seen nothing yet.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Or so it was said.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it was saying", ensure the subject ('it') is clearly defined and understood within the context. This helps avoid ambiguity and ensures the message is clear to the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "it was saying" without a clear referent for "it". Ensure that the subject is explicitly stated or easily inferred from the surrounding context to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was saying" functions as a descriptive device within narrative or expository writing. It attributes a communicative quality to a non-human subject, implying that the subject conveyed a specific message or sentiment. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was saying" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe how something conveyed a message or implication. Ludwig AI confirms that the expression is widely used, particularly within News & Media contexts. As writing guidance suggests, it is crucial to ensure that the subject, "it", is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. When alternatives are needed, phrases like "it implied" or "it suggested" offer nuanced replacements. The phrase maintains a neutral register, suitable for a broad range of writing styles. The authoritative sources emphasize its reliability and general use, as confirmed by Ludwig examples.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it implied

Focuses on the act of suggesting something without explicitly stating it.

it suggested

Similar to 'implied' but can also refer to a hint or indirect communication.

it communicated

Highlights the act of conveying information effectively.

it conveyed

Stresses the transmission of information or feelings.

it expressed

Emphasizes the outward manifestation of an idea or feeling.

it articulated

Focuses on the clarity and precision of the message.

it meant

Highlights the intended meaning or significance.

it signified

Focuses on the symbolic representation or indication.

it indicated

Emphasizes pointing out or showing something, often as evidence.

it purported

Suggests the claim or appearance of conveying a particular message, sometimes implying doubt.

FAQs

What does "it was saying" mean?

The phrase "it was saying" indicates that something, be it an object, text, or situation, conveyed a message, meaning, or implication in the past. It's used to describe the communication of an idea or feeling.

How can I rephrase "it was saying" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, you might consider alternatives like "it implied", "it suggested", or "it communicated". These options often lend a more sophisticated and precise nuance to your writing.

Is "it was saying" interchangeable with "it said"?

While similar, "it was saying" often implies a more nuanced or indirect form of communication than "it said". "It said" is more direct, whereas "it was saying" can imply subtext or unspoken meaning.

What's a common mistake to avoid when using "it was saying"?

A common mistake is using "it was saying" without a clear antecedent for "it". Ensure the subject is explicitly stated or easily inferred to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of "It was saying a lot", specify what "it" refers to: "The painting was saying a lot".