was eroded

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "was eroded" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the process of gradual destruction or deterioration of something, often in a physical or metaphorical sense. Example: "Over the years, the coastline was eroded by powerful waves and storms."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But gradually its independence was eroded.

The Guardian - Opinion

The confidence of the middle class was eroded.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The moral idea Jews have of themselves was eroded.

The New Yorker

In the fourth quarter, Citigroup's profit was eroded by a $1.3 billion legal bill.

The New York Times

Gradually her confidence was eroded to the point of no return.

The Guardian

Eventually, the political, economic, and social dominance of Americans of English and Dutch extraction was eroded.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Sediment was eroded from the continents and deposited in adjacent seas.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Any sympathy for Greece was eroded by his failure to draft concrete proposals".

The Guardian

Thereafter its might was eroded by the incursions of the neighbouring Chokwe.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But for whatever reason his natural advantage over Brown – more quick-witted and wittier – was eroded.

The Guardian

It would be a shame though if the chorus was eroded any more.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "was eroded" metaphorically, ensure the subject is something that can plausibly be worn down over time, such as trust, confidence, or support.

Common error

Avoid using "was eroded" with subjects that cannot undergo gradual wear or decline. For example, it's less appropriate to say "The building was eroded overnight" unless referring to a specific, gradual process affecting it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "was eroded" functions as a passive voice construction, indicating that the subject of the sentence underwent a process of gradual wearing away or diminution. As Ludwig AI indicates, this can be both physical and metaphorical.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

35%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "was eroded" is a versatile and commonly used expression that signifies a gradual process of wearing away or decline. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and applicable across various domains, including news, encyclopedias, and scientific writing. While primarily found in neutral contexts, it's essential to consider the subject matter to ensure accurate and meaningful application. Alternatives like "was diminished" or "was undermined" can offer nuanced shades of meaning depending on the specific context. When writing, remember to use "was eroded" with subjects that can logically undergo gradual degradation, thus avoiding potential misapplications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

was diminished

Focuses on a reduction in size, importance, or quality.

was undermined

Highlights a weakening or destabilizing effect.

was degraded

Implies a decline in quality or condition.

was worn away

Emphasizes the gradual removal of something through friction or weathering.

was depleted

Suggests a reduction in quantity or supply.

was lessened

Indicates a decrease in intensity or degree.

was impaired

Focuses on the weakening or damaging of a function or ability.

was attenuated

Implies a weakening or reduction in force or intensity.

was dissolved

Suggests a breaking down or disintegration into components.

was disintegrated

Emphasizes a breaking apart into small pieces.

FAQs

How can I use "was eroded" in a sentence?

The phrase "was eroded" is used to describe something that has been gradually worn away or diminished. For example, "The coastline "was eroded" by the constant action of the waves" or "Her confidence "was eroded" by repeated criticism".

What are some alternatives to "was eroded"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "was diminished", "was undermined", or "was worn away" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it correct to say "has been eroded" instead of "was eroded"?

Both "was eroded" and "has been eroded" are grammatically correct, but they imply slightly different timeframes. "Was eroded" suggests a completed action in the past, while "has been eroded" suggests an action that started in the past and may continue to the present.

What is the difference between "was eroded" and "disintegrated"?

"Was eroded" implies a gradual wearing away, while "disintegrated" suggests a sudden breaking apart. For instance, a cliff "was eroded" over centuries, but a bomb might cause a structure to "disintegrate" instantly.