it was secret

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was secret" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that was kept hidden or not disclosed in the past. Example: "The plan was so sensitive that it was secret, known only to a select few."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

No one knew because it was secret.

The Guardian - Opinion

There is no way it was secret," said the source.

The Guardian

It was secret driving music — that Route 66 beat, Pacific Coast Highway, 'I Am.

The New Yorker

If it was secret, people reason, it must be of particular sensitivity and importance.

The New York Times

But the list had obvious omissions and nothing on it was secret.

The Economist

It was secret driving music — that Route 66 beat, Pacific Coast Highway, 'I Am..

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

It's secret.

The New York Times

It is secret, which arouses suspicion.

The Economist

It's secret," Ms. Sapey said.

The New York Times

"The first is that it's secret.

The New York Times

"Ah, but it's secret geometry.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it was secret" to clearly convey that information or an activity was intentionally kept hidden. Consider the context to choose more specific alternatives like "it was confidential" or "it was classified" for added nuance.

Common error

Avoid using "it was secret" when a more precise term exists. For instance, instead of saying "the meeting was secret", specify "the meeting was confidential" or "the meeting was private" to provide better clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was secret" functions as a statement asserting the hidden or concealed nature of something. As noted by Ludwig AI, it's a correct and usable phrase in written English. The examples illustrate its use in various contexts, from government activities to personal experiences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Wiki

8%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was secret" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to indicate that something was intentionally concealed. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability. Its register is generally neutral, appearing in diverse contexts from news reports to personal anecdotes. When using the phrase, consider the specific nuance you want to convey and explore related alternatives like "it was confidential" or "it was classified". Be mindful of choosing a more precise term when appropriate to ensure clarity in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was confidential

Emphasizes the sensitive and private nature of the information.

it was undisclosed

Focuses on the act of not revealing information.

it was classified

Suggests the information was officially designated as secret by an authority.

it was covert

Highlights the hidden or clandestine nature of the action or information.

it was a closely guarded secret

Adds emphasis on the effort to protect the secret.

it was under wraps

Idiomatic expression indicating something is being kept secret until a specific time.

it was hushed up

Suggests an attempt to suppress or prevent information from becoming public.

it was off the record

Indicates information shared informally and not intended for publication.

it was shrouded in secrecy

Implies the secret was heavily guarded and surrounded by mystery.

it was behind closed doors

Suggests that an activity or discussion was conducted in private.

FAQs

What does "it was secret" mean?

The phrase "it was secret" indicates that something was kept hidden or not disclosed to the general public or specific individuals. It implies intentional concealment.

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

You can use "it was secret" to describe any information, plan, or activity that was intentionally kept hidden. For example: "The location of the meeting "it was secret" to everyone except a few key members."

What can I say instead of "it was secret"?

You can use alternatives like "it was confidential", "it was undisclosed", or "it was classified" depending on the context.

Is "it was secret" grammatically correct?

Yes, "it was secret" is grammatically correct. Ludwig AI also confirms its correct usage.