it was split

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was split" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that has been divided or separated into parts in the past. Example: "The document was too long, so it was split into two sections for easier reading."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Facebook first launched its location APIs at its Places event in August, but it was split into two main sets of functionality: Read and Write access.

TechCrunch

"It was split right in half," Rivers said.

The New York Times

"Whatever people tell you, I never cut the glove, it was split right from the beginning.

Independent

"In 1947, the British left India, and it was split in two: India and Pakistan.

The New York Times - Books

"Pakistan was a single nation, but anyone could see that it was split in two".

The New York Times - Books

In 2003 it was split into two provinces Papua and West Papua.

The Economist

It was split away from the plateau as Australia separated from Antarctica.

Encyclopedia Britannica

I ran to the front door and it was split in two.

The New York Times

It was split between Rooney Mara (from Carol) and Emmanuelle Bercot (from Mon Roi).

The Guardian - Film

It was split into five lanes and extended no more than five metres long.

Independent

During that time it was split in two by a stop-start war.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it was split", ensure the context clearly indicates what "it" refers to and what it was split into.

Common error

Avoid using "it was split" if the antecedent of "it" is ambiguous or unclear. Always ensure that the reader knows exactly what you are referring to.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was split" functions as a passive construction, indicating that something underwent a division or separation. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

25%

Wiki

23%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

13%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it was split" is a versatile and commonly used expression to describe the division or separation of something in the past. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread application across various fields. As highlighted by Ludwig, this phrase is frequently found in news articles, scientific publications, and encyclopedic entries. While simple, clarity is key: ensure the antecedent is clear to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives like "it was divided" or "it was partitioned" can offer nuanced variations in meaning, depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was divided

Replaces "split" with a direct synonym, focusing on the action of dividing.

it was partitioned

Emphasizes a more formal or structural separation.

it was separated

Highlights the act of setting apart or becoming distinct.

it was bisected

Specifies division into two equal parts.

it was cleaved

Suggests a sharp or forceful division.

it was halved

Specifically indicates division into two.

it was dissected

Implies a detailed or analytical separation.

it was fragmented

Focuses on breaking into smaller pieces.

it was segmented

Emphasizes division into distinct segments.

it was detached

Emphasizes the act of disconnecting or removing something.

FAQs

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

You can use "it was split" to describe something that has been divided or separated into parts. For example, "The project was too large, so "it was split" into smaller tasks."

What's the difference between "it was split" and "it was divided"?

While both phrases are similar, "it was split" can sometimes imply a more forceful or sudden separation, whereas "it was divided" often suggests a more planned or methodical separation. The best choice depends on the specific context. You could use "it was divided".

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

You can use alternatives like "it was partitioned", "it was separated", or "it was bisected" depending on the context.

Is "it was split in two" grammatically correct?

Yes, "it was split in two" is grammatically correct and commonly used to indicate that something has been divided into two parts.