it was used

USAGE SUMMARY

"it was used" is a common phrase, and it can be used in written English.
For example: "In the past, it was used to describe a particular type of behaviour."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It was used in its commercial form.

Applied Water Science

It was used by Trump.

The New Yorker

It was used for smoking opium".

The New York Times

It was used as propaganda.

The Guardian - Film

It was used in evidence against Malinski.

Cornell University

It was used; and the question is whether it was used unfairly.

Cornell University

It was used in one campaign.

Nature

It was used in four campaigns.

Nature

It was used most often for pants.

The New York Times

It was used in both Iraq wars.

The Guardian

It was used; it was popular.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it was used", ensure the context clearly identifies what "it" refers to, maintaining clarity and avoiding ambiguity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "it was used" without a clear antecedent for "it". Ensure the reader can easily identify what is being referred to; otherwise, rephrase for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was used" primarily functions as a passive voice construction. It indicates that something (represented by "it") underwent an action (being used) by an unspecified or less emphasized agent. Ludwig's examples show diverse applications across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

33%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it was used" is a very common passive voice construction that describes the past utilization of something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and broad applicability across numerous contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Academia. While generally neutral in tone, it can adopt a more formal register in academic or professional settings. To ensure clarity, always provide a clear antecedent for "it" when employing this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was employed

Offers a more formal and direct synonym for "used", suitable for technical or official contexts.

it had been utilized

Emphasizes the prior utilization of something, adding a sense of completion.

it was implemented

Suggests a more structured or deliberate use, often within a system or plan.

it found application

Highlights the discovery or determination of a suitable use for something.

it served a purpose

Focuses on the function or utility that something provided.

it functioned as

Explains the role or capacity in which something was used or operated.

it played a role

Indicates the contribution or part that something had in a broader context.

it saw service

Implies a period of active use or employment, often in a professional or official capacity.

it came into play

Emphasizes the introduction or activation of something for a specific purpose.

it underwent application

Underscores the process or act of applying something to a particular use.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "it was used" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "it was employed", "it was utilized", or "it underwent application" depending on the specific context.

What are some common situations where "it was used" is appropriate?

"It was used" is appropriate when describing the past function of an object, tool, method, or strategy. For example, "it was used as evidence in court" or "it was used for research purposes".

Is "it was used" passive voice? If so, how can I make it active?

Yes, "it was used" is in the passive voice. To make it active, identify the actor and rewrite the sentence. For example, instead of "it was used by the researchers", you could say "the researchers used it".

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

"It was used" indicates that something was used in the past, while "it is used" indicates that something is currently used. The key difference is the time frame—past versus present.