it was seized

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was seized" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something was taken or captured, often by authority or force. Example: "The evidence was crucial to the case, and it was seized during the police raid."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

In World War II, it was seized from its Jewish owners by the Nazis.

The New York Times

The complex was picked up from the New York City Housing Development Corporation after it was seized from its previous owners, who had neglected it.

The New York Times

Despite numerous conflicts with its competitors, especially Venice, Genoa kept its independence until 1796, when it was seized by Napoleon Bonaparte for France.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The Iranians were on a bus that they said was on its way to a Shiite shrine when it was seized by the rebels.

The New York Times

In 1934 thieves stole two of its panels, and during World War II it was seized by the Nazis and kept in a salt mine.

The New York Times

"It was seized, blown up.

The New York Times

Unsurprisingly, it was seized upon.

The Guardian - Music

Mr. Yu was not on the boat when it was seized.

The New York Times

A former orphanage, it was seized by the Turkish government but returned to the church recently.

The New York Times - Science

It was seized by the police at the port on Friday.

The New York Times

In 1793 it was seized by Prussia; it was returned to Poland in 1919.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it was seized", ensure that the subject is clearly defined and that the context specifies who or what did the seizing.

Common error

Avoid ambiguity by specifying the actor when using "it was seized". For example, instead of "It was seized", write "It was seized by the authorities" to provide clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was seized" functions as a passive voice construction, indicating that the subject of the sentence was acted upon. This construction is used to emphasize the object that was taken or captured, rather than the agent who performed the action. Ludwig provides numerous examples of its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was seized" is a common and grammatically sound passive construction used to indicate that something has been taken or captured, often by an authority or through force. As noted by Ludwig AI, this phrase is frequently found in News & Media and Encyclopedias, indicating its suitability for neutral to formal contexts. When using "it was seized", ensure clarity by specifying who or what did the seizing, and consider using alternatives like "it was confiscated" or "it was captured" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it got captured

Changes the verb to "captured", implying a taking by force or strategy.

it was taken possession of

More formal alternative, stressing the act of taking ownership.

it was confiscated

Refers to the seizure of property by legal authority, often due to a violation of law.

it came under control

Focuses on the shift of control, implying a takeover.

it was appropriated

Suggests a formal or official taking, often by a government or organization.

it fell into the hands of

Highlights the recipients of the seizure, emphasizing possession.

it was commandeered

Implies a taking for military or public use.

it was expropriated

Highlights a government or authority taking private property for public use.

it was wrested

Emphasizes the effort or struggle involved in the seizure.

it was impounded

Specifically refers to the legal seizure of property.

FAQs

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

Use "it was seized" to indicate that something was taken or captured, often by authority or force. For example, "The smuggled goods were discovered, and "it was seized" by customs officials".

What are some alternatives to saying "it was seized"?

You can use alternatives such as "it was confiscated", "it was captured", or "it was taken" depending on the specific context.

Is "it was seized" formal or informal?

"It was seized" is generally considered a neutral expression, suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, its formality can be influenced by the surrounding vocabulary and the overall tone of the writing.

What is the difference between "it was seized" and "it was stolen"?

"It was seized" implies that something was taken by authority or force, often legally or officially. "It was stolen", on the other hand, suggests that something was taken illegally and without permission.