it was wielded

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was wielded" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing an object or tool that was used or handled skillfully, often in a context involving power or control. Example: "The sword was ancient, but in the hands of the warrior, it was wielded with unmatched precision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Internal investigations of both agencies found widespread misuse of the power, and little oversight into how it was wielded.

The New York Times

For a time, it was wielded as a means to dismiss Palestinian claims on the land, and a means to be dismissive of Palestinians entirely.

The New Yorker

It was wielded by a suddenly familiar figure, one Leslie Hill, the chairman of the pre-merger ITV network of companies between 1992 and 2004, a former director of Carlton Communications and tireless lobbyist on its behalf.

The Guardian

Now, three years on, nearly a decade after the first UN treaty on global warming was signed, the protocol seems to have been dealt a lethal blow and it was wielded by the man who defeated Mr Gore for the American presidency, George Bush.In truth, the protocol was already in deep trouble even before Mr Bush took office.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

But it was wielding the willow where Hammond impressed himself on the minds of the cricketing world, especially Australian opponents.

BBC

Depending on how it's wielded, CRISPR can do its work without leaving any foreign DNA behind, unlike earlier techniques for genetically modifying organisms, which poses a challenge for regulations based on the presence of foreign DNA.

Science Magazine

It is wielded through a filter and reused.

Automation in Construction

It's wielded by Slag, the miniboss at the Saugus Ironworks.

Independent

If it is wielded, the party in power must receive 60 votes for legislation to pass.

The Guardian

It is wielded not by mighty muscles but by the power of the mind, by tools and ingenuity.

The Guardian - Books

Some say it is wielded by a banking cabal; others by a fraternity of real estate developers.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it was wielded" when you want to emphasize the skillful or forceful application of something, especially power, authority, or a tool.

Common error

Avoid using "it was wielded" when a simpler term like "used" or "applied" would suffice. "It was wielded" carries a connotation of power or skill that may not always be appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was wielded" functions as a passive construction, indicating that something was acted upon or manipulated with skill and purpose. Ludwig's examples illustrate this usage across various contexts, emphasizing the application of power or a tool by an agent.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was wielded" is a passive construction indicating the skillful or forceful use of something, often implying power or authority. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts, primarily in news and media, but also in scientific and formal settings. While grammatically sound, it is important to use this phrase judiciously, avoiding overuse in simple contexts where more direct language would suffice. Alternatives like "it was used" or "it was employed" can be more appropriate in certain situations. Remember that the phrase should match the register of the text and the aim of the communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was used

Replaces "wielded" with a more general term for usage, lacking the implication of power or skill.

it was employed

Similar to "used" but suggests a more deliberate or strategic application.

it was exercised

Focuses on the exertion of power or control, suitable for abstract concepts like authority or influence.

it was applied

Suggests a practical or functional use, often in a technical or procedural context.

it was implemented

Emphasizes the execution or carrying out of a plan or decision.

it was handled

Indicates management or manipulation, often with a focus on care or skill.

it was administered

Implies formal or official management, such as a system or process.

it was directed

Suggests guidance or control over something, often towards a specific purpose.

it was operated

Refers to the use of machinery or equipment, implying a functional process.

it was manipulated

Suggests skillful, but potentially deceptive, handling or control.

FAQs

What does "it was wielded" mean?

The phrase "it was wielded" means something was used or exercised with skill, power, or authority. It implies a deliberate and often forceful application.

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

You can use alternatives like "it was used", "it was employed", or "it was exercised", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "it was wielded" in a sentence?

It's appropriate to use "it was wielded" when describing the skillful or powerful use of something, such as a weapon, authority, or influence. For instance, "The sword "it was wielded" with precision."

How does "it was wielded" differ from "it was used"?

"It was used" is a general term for employing something. "It was wielded" implies a specific kind of use that involves skill, control, and often a degree of force or authority. So, a hammer "it was used" but a sword "it was wielded".