it was seen on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was seen on" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that has been observed or noted in a specific context, such as a location, platform, or medium. Example: "The artwork was seen on display at the local gallery last weekend."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

The last time CBS regionalized a Patriots game, on Oct. 21, it was seen on local stations all over its core fan base in New England, not just in Boston.

The New York Times

It was seen on two successive nights in October of that year.

The New York Times - Science

But even before the look hit stores, it was seen on campuses East and West.

The New York Times

Within two years it was seen on 79 stations, including WPIX in New York.

The New York Times - Arts

The last time it was seen on Broadway was 1968, when it ran for 47 performances.

The New York Times

"It's a shame it was seen on national TV, but it points out needed work to be done".

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

That compared with the 1% higher average selling prices TUI said it was seeing on Tuesday.

The Guardian - Business

In the climactic number in "Smash," an ad for it is seen on a taxi.

The New Yorker

That's the beauty of it being seen on a much larger scale".

The New York Times - Magazine

It is seen on DirecTV and small cable systems in the South and Midwest.

The New York Times - Sports

It is seen on TV and discussed online, which leads to more TV ads.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it was seen on" to describe observations in various media, locations or platforms.

Common error

While "it was seen on" is grammatically sound, overuse of passive voice can make writing feel indirect. Consider rephrasing to active voice where appropriate for a more direct and engaging style. For example, instead of "it was seen on television", try "viewers saw it on television".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was seen on" functions as a passive construction indicating that something was observed or viewed in a specific context or location. Ludwig AI confirms its general correctness and usability. The 'it' refers to the subject being observed, while 'on' specifies the medium or platform.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

29%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it was seen on" is a grammatically sound phrase used to indicate that something was observed in a specific context, as affirmed by Ludwig AI. It functions primarily to report or inform. While versatile across different registers, its neutral tone makes it a common occurrence in News & Media, Science, and Wiki sources. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by defining 'it' and being specific with the 'on' context. Consider active voice alternatives for a more engaging style. The phrase is semantically similar to phrases such as "it appeared on" or "it was featured on", offering writers a range of options to convey similar meanings with slight nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it appeared on

Replaces 'seen' with 'appeared', emphasizing the act of becoming visible.

it was featured on

Focuses on the highlighting or showcasing of something.

it could be seen on

Adds a sense of possibility or availability for viewing.

it is visible on

States the current state of being able to be seen.

it was broadcast on

Specifically refers to content being transmitted via media.

it was displayed on

Emphasizes the act of showing something publicly.

it was presented on

Highlights the act of formally introducing or showing something.

it has been spotted on

Implies a casual or informal observation.

it was identified on

Emphasizes the act of recognizing or pinpointing something.

it emerged on

Suggests a gradual or unexpected appearance.

FAQs

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

You can rephrase "it was seen on" to use a more active voice. For example, try "viewers saw it on", or "it appeared on" depending on the context. Using active voice can make your writing more direct and engaging.

What's the difference between "it was seen on" and "it was featured on"?

"It was seen on" simply indicates that something was visible in a particular context. "It was featured on", however, implies that something was highlighted or given special attention on a particular platform or medium.

Is "it was seen on" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "it was seen on" is generally appropriate for formal writing, especially in contexts where objectivity is important. However, consider using a more active voice if the context allows and if it enhances clarity.

What are some alternatives to "it was seen on" for informal writing?

For informal writing, you could use phrases like "it popped up on" or "it showed up on" to convey a more casual tone. The best choice depends on the specific context and the desired level of formality.