they were trapped

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they were trapped" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation where individuals are unable to escape or are confined in a particular place or circumstance. Example: "During the storm, they were trapped in the old cabin with no way to get out."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They were trapped.

The New York Times - Magazine

They were jumping cos they were trapped.

The New York Times

They were trapped in elevators.

The New York Times

They were trapped upside down and submerged.

The Washington Post

They were trapped and pledged $27,000.

The New Yorker

They were trapped by the second plane.

The New York Times

"I thought they were trapped out years ago," he said.

The Guardian

Now, with bullets spraying overhead, they were trapped.

The Washington Post

They were trapped as surely as if they were shackled.

The New York Times

Some said they were trapped behind the broken-down bus.

The New York Times

Gradually, everyone became aware that they were trapped.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "they were trapped", ensure the context provides enough information about what or who is doing the trapping, whether it's a physical barrier, a set of circumstances, or an oppressive system.

Common error

Avoid overuse of passive voice when using "they were trapped". Instead of simply stating that they were trapped, consider adding agency by explaining how or why they were trapped, making the sentence more informative and engaging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they were trapped" primarily functions as a passive construction, indicating a state of being confined or unable to escape. As indicated by Ludwig AI, this is a common and correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Academia

14%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Science

3%

Wiki

6%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "they were trapped" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe a state of confinement or the inability to escape a situation. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and commonality. It appears most often in news and media contexts, but also in academic and formal settings. When writing, ensure to add agency, explaining how and why they were trapped. Alternatives include "they were confined" or "they were stuck", depending on the level of formality required.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they were stuck

A more informal way to express being unable to move or escape.

they were caught

Implies being caught in an undesirable situation or predicament.

they found themselves confined

This alternative emphasizes the discovery of being in a restricted space or situation.

they were hemmed in

This suggests being surrounded or restricted by something.

they were cornered

This suggests being forced into a position with no escape route.

they were immobilized

This focuses on their inability to move or act freely.

they were held captive

This suggests they were forcibly detained, implying a captor.

they were imprisoned

Suggests a literal or figurative state of being held against their will.

they were ensnared

Implies being caught in a trap or difficult situation, often unintentionally.

they were marooned

This suggests being stranded and isolated, often in a remote location.

FAQs

How can I use "they were trapped" in a sentence?

You can use "they were trapped" to describe a situation where individuals are unable to escape a physical place or a difficult situation. For example: "During the fire, "they were trapped" on the top floor."

What are some alternatives to saying "they were trapped"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "they were confined", "they were stuck", or "they were caught".

Is it better to say "they were trapped" or "they got trapped"?

Both "they were trapped" and "they got trapped" are grammatically correct. "They were trapped" is slightly more formal, while "they got trapped" is more informal and conversational. The best choice depends on the context and desired tone.

Can "they were trapped" be used in a figurative sense?

Yes, "they were trapped" can be used figuratively to describe being stuck in a difficult situation or cycle. For example, ""they were trapped" in a cycle of poverty."