it was searched

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was searched" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to an action that has been completed in the past, indicating that something or someone was examined or looked for. Example: "The entire area was searched for any signs of the missing hiker."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

He said the prison was one of the most dangerous in the country and would be at maximum security while it was searched.

The Guardian

The suitcase was found in the boot of a silver Škoda Octavia when it was searched after arriving in the UK from France.

The Guardian

When it was searched a large wooden drum stick, a "pointed loaded stick" and a shillelagh were found in the van.

The Guardian

The presidential plane then made an unplanned 12-hour stop in Vienna, where it was searched, prompting outrage in Latin America about yanqui and European high-handedness.

The Economist

As the NTV television network, founded and partly owned by Vladimir V. Gusinsky, the Russian press tycoon, and his company, Media-Most, advanced talks abroad, it was searched at home today by federal prosecutors.

The New York Times

Most of the leaders being questioned had been allowed to leave by police by yesterday evening, but Navalny remained in custody and was escorted to the office of his Anti-Corruption Fund so he could be present while it was searched.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

The result: Google would perform the search function while not recognizing what it was searching for.

Harvard University

The Israeli military said it was searching for Palestinian weapons-smuggling tunnels in the area.

The New York Times

It was searching "return to social work" online that brought up Buckinghamshire's programme.

The Guardian

The company said it was searching for a president and chief executive.

The New York Times

It was searching, with a lot of open space and no steady pulse.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it was searched", ensure the context clearly identifies what "it" refers to. Avoiding ambiguity is crucial for clear communication.

Common error

Avoid using "it was searched" when the subject performing the search is unclear. Specify who or what conducted the search to maintain clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was searched" functions as a passive construction, indicating that a particular subject underwent a search. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was searched" is a grammatically sound and commonly used passive construction. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate across various contexts, particularly in news reporting and scientific publications. To ensure clarity, specify what "it" refers to and avoid ambiguity regarding who conducted the search. Alternatives include "it was examined" and "a search was conducted", depending on the desired emphasis. It maintains a neutral register, making it suitable for both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was examined

A more general term for looking at something closely.

it was investigated

Suggests a more in-depth inquiry to uncover facts.

a search was conducted

Replaces the passive voice with an active construction, emphasizing the action of searching.

it was checked

Indicates a quick verification process.

it underwent scrutiny

Emphasizes a detailed and critical examination.

it was explored

Implies a thorough examination of all aspects.

it was vetted

Focuses on verifying the suitability or correctness.

an inspection was performed on it

Focuses on a formal or official examination.

a review was conducted

Signifies a formal assessment or evaluation.

a scan was performed

Suggests the use of technology to examine something.

FAQs

What does "it was searched" mean?

The phrase "it was searched" means that something has undergone an examination or investigation to find something or verify something. The search has already happened in the past.

What are some alternatives to "it was searched"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "it was examined", "it was investigated", or "a search was conducted".

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

You can use "it was searched" in a sentence like, "The building was secured after "it was searched" by the police".

Is "it was searched" formal or informal?

The phrase "it was searched" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.