they were searched

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they were searched" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing an action where individuals were subjected to a search, typically in contexts involving security or law enforcement. Example: "Before entering the concert venue, they were searched to ensure no prohibited items were brought inside."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

Nyoman said the men smiled and shook their hands before they were searched and handcuffed.

The Guardian

(It did, but he could not remember whether they were searched).

The New York Times

As the men came forth today, they were searched for explosives and their hands were bound behind them.

The New York Times

They were searched in 2008 by prosecutors investigating allegations the company created slush funds to bribe officials.

The Guardian - Tech

They were held for six hours, during which time they were searched and had their phones confiscated.

Independent

According to the state-run Middle East News Agency, the police cleared an exit for Morsi's supporters to leave the mosque after they were searched.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

They were searching for hope.

The New Yorker

They were searching her suitcase.

The New Yorker

They were searching for the dead.

The New York Times

They were searching for "do-able" energy-saving strategies.

University of California, Berkeley

They didn't even know what they were searching for.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "they were searched", ensure the context clearly indicates who performed the search and the reason behind it. Providing this context enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "they were searched" without specifying who conducted the search. This can lead to confusion and weaken the impact of your writing. Always aim for clarity by including the actor performing the action.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they were searched" functions as a passive voice construction, indicating that the subject (they) received the action of being searched. Ludwig AI shows this usage in various contexts, from news reports to scientific articles.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "they were searched" is a grammatically correct and commonly used passive construction that describes the action of individuals being subjected to a search. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is most frequently encountered in news and scientific contexts, with a neutral register suitable for objective reporting. When using this phrase, clarity is key; specify who conducted the search to avoid ambiguity. Alternative phrases include "they underwent a search" or "they were subjected to inspection", offering slight variations in emphasis and formality. This usage is marked as correct and usable in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they underwent a search

Emphasizes the process of being searched rather than the completed action.

a search was conducted on them

Shifts the focus to the action of searching, making it the subject.

they were subjected to inspection

Uses a more formal term, "inspection", implying a careful examination.

they were frisked

Implies a quick, physical search of a person's outer clothing.

they were examined

A broader term suggesting any form of scrutiny or investigation.

they were checked

Implies a verification process, ensuring something is correct or safe.

they were screened

Suggests a systematic process of filtering or assessing individuals.

they were investigated

Implies a more in-depth inquiry, often related to potential wrongdoing.

they were vetted

Suggests a thorough background check to assess suitability or trustworthiness.

they were scanned

Implies the use of technology to quickly examine individuals or objects.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "they were searched" to be more specific?

To be more specific, you can replace "they were searched" with phrases like "police officers searched them" or "customs officials searched their luggage". This clarifies who performed the action.

Is it better to use active or passive voice when describing a search?

The choice depends on the context. Active voice (e.g., "The police searched them") is more direct, while passive voice ("they were searched") emphasizes the recipients of the action. Use the voice that best suits your focus.

What are some synonyms for "searched" in the context of "they were searched"?

Synonyms include "frisked", "inspected", "examined", or "screened", depending on the type and intensity of the search. For instance, "they were frisked" implies a quick, physical search.

How does the formality of a text affect the choice of using "they were searched"?

In formal contexts, consider using "they underwent a search" or "they were subjected to inspection". In informal contexts, "they were searched" is perfectly acceptable and widely understood.