made a passage

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "made a passage" is not commonly used in written English and may not convey a clear meaning.
It could be used in contexts where someone is creating or facilitating a passage, but it is not a standard expression. Example: "The architect made a passage through the dense forest to allow for easier access to the site."

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

A few directors have witnessed that temper up close, among them David Lean, with whom she made A Passage to India, and George Sluizer, whose relations with her during Dark Blood (River Phoenix's last film) were so dire that producers had to intervene.

The Guardian - Film

These considerations mainly apply to the mulberry technique, where the 18G needle made a passage big enough for a knot to pass through, ultimately resulting in the failure of the suture.

Journal of Orthopaedics and Traumatology

On 19 February, the Brazilian ironclads successfully made a passage up the Paraguay River under heavy fire, gaining full control of the river and thus isolating Humaitá from resupply by water.

Wikipedia

On 19 February 1868, Brazilian ironclads successfully made a passage up the Paraguay River under heavy fire, gaining full control of the river and isolating Humaitá from resupply by water.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Without a second thought, they lowered the floor to make a passage for visitors.

The Guardian

For memorable fiction — the only kind worth attempting — typically makes a passage through, and at best only partially triumphs over, the world's all too numerous excruciations.

The New Yorker

Even so, every few years I must make a passage to London and gorge on your dramatic treats, most of which we'll never see (except, perhaps, at the cinema).

The Guardian

My own favourite movement is the finale, in which, after an implacable unison opening, there's one of the most memorable tunes anyone ever wrote in a symphonic finale; later on, Farrenc makes a passage of contrapuntal rectitude burn with a diabolical ferocity before a dark, uncompromisingly minor-key coda.

The Guardian - Music

On Monarch, Captain Edward O'Bryen remarked to Onslow that he could not see where his ship could pass between the closely formed Dutch ships, to which the Admiral responded that "the Monarch will make a passage".

Wikipedia

The Grand Western Canal was conceived as one of several competing schemes to alleviate the hazards and delays of coastal sailing ships making a passage around Land's End to get between the Bristol Channel and the English Channel.

Wikipedia

Bring a lot of dirt, so when you run into lava you can place it on the lava, making a passage.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing historical events or voyages, "made a passage" can add a touch of formality. Consider stronger verbs like "navigated", "traversed", or "crossed" for modern contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "made a passage" in contemporary contexts where more direct verbs such as "crossed", "passed", or "went through" would be clearer and more impactful. Overuse can make your writing sound stilted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "made a passage" functions primarily as a verb phrase indicating the act of creating, completing, or successfully navigating a route or transition. Ludwig examples illustrate this use in both literal and somewhat metaphorical senses, such as ships navigating a river or a person transitioning to a new phase in life. While acceptable, Ludwig AI suggests it's not the most common or direct phrasing.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

30%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "made a passage" describes the action of creating or completing a route, journey, or transition. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is acceptable, although not as common as other alternatives. It's most frequently found in News & Media and Wiki contexts, suggesting a slightly formal or descriptive tone. When writing, be mindful of the context. Consider using more direct verbs like "crossed" or "navigated" for modern writing. The phrase can add formality in historical or voyage descriptions. While grammatically correct, overuse can lead to stilted prose. Remember to consider the alternatives and the specific intent to choose the clearest and most impactful phrasing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

created an opening

Focuses on the act of creating an opening or route, shifting from the completion aspect of "passage".

cleared a path

Emphasizes removing obstacles to create a route, changing the nuance from merely making a passage.

forged a route

Highlights the effort and determination in creating a route, adding an element of difficulty.

effected a transition

Focuses on the act of causing a transition or change, rather than physical passage.

accomplished a journey

Highlights the completion of a trip, emphasizing the destination reached.

established access

Focuses on setting up a means of access, rather than the movement itself.

paved the way

Implies preparing a route for others, adding a sense of facilitation.

opened a channel

Suggests creating a pathway for communication or flow, rather than physical movement.

navigated a course

Emphasizes the skillful steering through a route, adding a sense of expertise.

completed a crossing

Focuses solely on the act of crossing or traversing a space.

FAQs

How can I use "made a passage" in a sentence?

You can use "made a passage" to describe the act of creating or completing a route, often in historical or formal contexts. For example, "The Brazilian ironclads successfully "made a passage" up the Paraguay River" describes a specific military maneuver.

What are some alternatives to "made a passage"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "created a pathway", "opened a route", or "completed a crossing".

Is "made a passage" formal or informal?

"Made a passage" leans towards the formal side. In more casual writing, consider using simpler alternatives like "passed through" or "went across".

What is the difference between "made a passage" and "made a voyage"?

"Made a passage" refers to the act of creating or going through a route or opening, while "made a voyage" specifically describes a long journey by sea or in space. They are not interchangeable.