they were captured

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they were captured" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing a situation where individuals or entities have been taken or seized, often in a context of conflict or imprisonment. Example: "The soldiers were outnumbered and ultimately, they were captured by the enemy forces."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

They were captured and returned.

The New York Times

They were captured almost immediately.

The New York Times

I saw how they were captured!

Independent

Mr. Seaman said they were captured.

The New York Times

They were captured and charged with murder.

The New York Times

Instead, they were captured and imprisoned in the United States.

The New York Times - Travel

They were captured off the Venezuelan coast, by the Spanish.

The New Yorker

They were captured by North Vietnam forces in April 1975.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Some have complained of beatings or injuries received when they were captured.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Here are our 10 favorite images and how they were captured.

Vice

The same individuals later reused sleeping trees where they were captured.

American Journal of Primatology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "they were captured", ensure the subject is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For instance, specify who "they" refers to within the sentence or preceding context.

Common error

Avoid using "they were captured" when a more direct, active voice would be clearer and more impactful. For instance, instead of "they were captured by the enemy", consider "the enemy captured them".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they were captured" functions as a passive construction, indicating that the subject experienced the action of being taken or seized. As Ludwig AI explains, this is grammatically correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "they were captured" is a grammatically sound and frequently used passive construction that describes the act of being taken or seized. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It's commonly found in news and media, as well as scientific contexts. When using the phrase, clarity is key, ensuring the subject is well-defined. While widely accepted, consider active voice alternatives for stronger writing. The phrase maintains a neutral register, suitable for factual reporting across various sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they were apprehended

Focuses on the act of being caught by authorities.

they were seized

Emphasizes the forceful taking of individuals.

they were taken prisoner

Highlights the status of being held captive.

they were arrested

Specifies the legal process of being taken into custody.

they were seized and detained

Emphasizes the act of forceful taking and holding in custody.

they were taken into custody

Formal way to say they were arrested or detained.

they fell into enemy hands

Highlights the capture by an opposing force in a conflict situation.

they were overpowered

Focuses on being subdued by force.

they were ensnared

Implies being trapped or caught in a difficult situation.

they were caught

A simpler, more general way of saying they were captured.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "they were captured" to sound more formal?

Consider using phrases like "they were apprehended", "they were taken into custody", or "they were detained" depending on the specific context and desired level of formality.

What's the difference between "they were captured" and "they were rescued"?

"They were captured" implies being taken against one's will and held captive, while "they were rescued" suggests being saved from a dangerous or harmful situation. These are opposite in meaning.

In what situations is it most appropriate to use the phrase "they were captured"?

The phrase "they were captured" is most appropriate in situations involving conflict, crime, or escape attempts, where individuals or groups are forcibly taken or apprehended.

Is "they were captured" grammatically correct?

Yes, "they were captured" is grammatically correct. It uses the passive voice of the verb "capture", indicating that the subject ("they") received the action of being captured.