it was secured

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was secured" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something has been made safe or protected, often in contexts related to safety, security, or assurance. Example: "After the storm, we ensured that all the windows were closed and it was secured against any further damage."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

But standing before Duccio's tiny "Madonna and Child" — a work the museum is believed to have paid more than $45 million for in 2004 — he spent less time admiring the painting than studying its transparent case to see how it was secured.

The New York Times - Arts

When asked why the event was hosted at a building in the heart of the city's bustling downtown instead of a secured law enforcement facility, Downing said the LAPD "ensured it was secured.

Los Angeles Times

I believe it was secured in his room," Lewis said.

The Washington Post

In 1842 it was secured by the French, who surrounded it with ramparts.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The trophy was presented in Brisbane when it was secured in Sydney.

The Guardian - Sport

It was secured in a gun cabinet in the house, but he had the key to it.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

Make sure that it is secured.

WikiHow

How it is secured could be secondary.

The Guardian - Opinion

He consistently looks in the ball until it's secured.

The New York Times

It is secured with a wide head strap (Fig.  1).

BMC Ophthalmology

It is secured by a belt worn around the waist.

BMC Public Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it was secured", ensure the context clearly indicates what "it" refers to, avoiding ambiguity. For instance, "The perimeter was secured" leaves no doubt about what was protected.

Common error

Avoid using "it was secured by itself" without specifying who or what did the securing. Complete the thought: "It was secured by the team", not just "It was secured."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was secured" functions as a passive voice construction, indicating that something underwent the action of being secured. As seen in Ludwig's examples, it often appears when detailing the state of an object or location after measures have been taken to protect or control it.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Wiki

19%

Science

19%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was secured" is a grammatically sound and frequently used passive construction, confirmed by Ludwig AI. It effectively communicates that something has been made safe, protected, or obtained. Its usage spans various contexts, predominantly in news and media, science, and wiki sources, lending itself to a neutral or professional register. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity regarding the subject and the securing agent, avoiding ambiguity to maintain effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was protected

Emphasizes the act of shielding or defending something from harm or danger.

it was safeguarded

Emphasizes the active measures taken to protect and preserve something.

it was ensured

Focuses on the certainty and guarantee that something was made certain.

it was shielded

Implies a more direct act of protection, like using a barrier.

it was guaranteed

Highlights the assurance and promise that something was safeguarded.

it was locked down

Implies a high level of security, often in response to a threat.

it was obtained

Shifts the focus to the act of acquiring or gaining possession of something.

it was fortified

Suggests that something was strengthened or reinforced for protection.

it was acquired

Similar to obtained, but often implies a more formal or strategic acquisition.

it was attained

Suggests that something was achieved or reached after some effort.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "it was secured" to sound more active?

Consider using active voice constructions such as "the team secured it" or "they secured the area". These options often make the sentence more direct and engaging.

What are some synonyms for "it was secured" that emphasize protection?

Alternatives include "it was protected", "it was safeguarded", or "it was shielded", each highlighting different aspects of protective action.

Is "it was secured" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "it was secured" is suitable for formal writing, especially in contexts where you want to emphasize the action taken without specifying the actor. However, active voice may sometimes be preferred for clarity.

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

"It was secured" indicates a past action of making something safe or protected, whereas "it is secure" describes the current state of being safe or protected. For example, "The building was secured after the incident" vs. "The building is secure now".