it was unavoidable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was unavoidable" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express that something could not be prevented or avoided, often in the context of an event or situation that occurred despite efforts to prevent it. Example: "Despite our best efforts to mitigate the risks, the accident was unfortunate, and it was unavoidable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

She said she had received so many requests for interviews that "it was unavoidable" and"I knew I wouldn't get through this year without" doing an interview.

The Washington Post

Verrilli said the justices' split "was not ideal," though he surmised that "it was unavoidable" in light of the court's ideological tie following the death of Justice Antonin Scalia.

Huffington Post

Tonight BA denied allegations it is profiteering by putting the seats on sale and said it was unavoidable because of the technicalities of its booking system and that the tickets could be reserved by stranded passengers for free.

The Guardian - Business

Excuse the slip, but it was unavoidable.

The New York Times

It was unavoidable but seemingly unwinnable.

The Washington Post

He claimed it was unavoidable, fair and progressive.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

"Sometimes it's unavoidable".

The New York Times

But it is unavoidable.

The Economist

"It's unavoidable".

The New York Times - Tech

And it's unavoidable.

The New York Times

"It's unavoidable," Matta said.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it was unavoidable" when you want to convey that an event occurred despite any attempts to prevent it, often implying external forces or circumstances were the primary cause.

Common error

Avoid using "it was unavoidable" to excuse negligence or lack of preparation. The phrase is most effective when genuinely uncontrollable factors led to the outcome, not when the result stems from oversight or poor planning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was unavoidable" functions as an assertion or statement of fact, indicating that a specific event or outcome could not be prevented. Ludwig confirms its correctness and usability in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it was unavoidable" is a versatile expression used to convey that a particular event or outcome could not be prevented. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts, primarily in News & Media and Science. It's crucial to use this phrase accurately, ensuring it reflects genuine circumstances beyond control rather than excusing preventable errors. Consider alternatives like "it couldn't be helped" or "it was inevitable" to fine-tune the specific meaning. As a common expression, mastering its correct application can enhance the clarity and precision of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it couldn't be helped

Emphasizes acceptance of an unfortunate situation with no blame implied.

it was inevitable

Suggests the outcome was predetermined and certain to happen.

there was no alternative

Highlights the lack of other options or courses of action.

it was bound to happen

Implies a natural progression or likelihood of the event occurring.

it was a foregone conclusion

Indicates the result was predictable and certain beforehand.

it was not preventable

Directly states the impossibility of preventing the event.

the situation was inescapable

Focuses on the inability to avoid the circumstances.

there was no way to avoid it

Highlights the absence of any possible means of evasion.

it was predetermined

Suggests the result was decided in advance, leaving no room for change.

circumstances dictated it

Indicates external factors forced a particular outcome.

FAQs

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

You can use "it was unavoidable" to describe a situation that could not be prevented, such as, "The delay was unfortunate, but "it was unavoidable" due to the severe weather conditions."

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

Alternatives include phrases like "it couldn't be helped", "it was inevitable", or "there was no alternative", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "it was unavoidable" formal or informal?

"It was unavoidable" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it's more common in neutral or slightly formal settings. More casual alternatives exist for very informal situations.

When is it inappropriate to use "it was unavoidable"?

It's best to avoid using "it was unavoidable" when the situation resulted from negligence or lack of proper planning. In such cases, using the phrase might seem like an attempt to deflect responsibility.