was first sent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "was first sent" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate the initial transmission or dispatch of something, often in a historical or chronological context. Example: "The message was first sent in 1995, marking the beginning of digital communication."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He was first sent to Iraq early in 2005.

The New York Times

He was first sent to an interrogation prison within the walls of Saladin's 12th-century citadel.

The New York Times

He was first sent to Rio de Janeiro, and then to Argentina and Bolivia.

The New York Times

He was first sent to prison in 1987, and arrived in Pendleton in 1996.

The New Yorker

He said that when Olajuwon was first sent to him: "He had no moves.

The New York Times

I used to cry under the sheets when I was first sent away.

The Guardian

Geoffrion was first sent to Hamilton of the American League after the trade, until the Canadiens called him up Monday.

The New York Times

Mr. Mandela was 44 years old and the father of five young children when he was first sent to prison.

The New York Times

Jones was first sent to Bletchley Park in early 1942 at the age of 35 because it was in crisis.

The Guardian

Which actors will appear, and will they be the same six to whom the leaked script was first sent?

The Guardian - Film

The letter was first sent to a select few authors, and then to Hachette itself, reported the New York Times.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "was first sent", ensure the context clearly indicates where or to whom something was sent. Avoid ambiguity by specifying the recipient or destination.

Common error

While "was first sent" is grammatically correct, excessive use of the passive voice can make writing sound weak. Consider rephrasing to use the active voice where appropriate, such as "They first sent the package" instead of "The package was first sent."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "was first sent" functions as a passive verb phrase, indicating that a subject received an action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct. It describes the initial act of sending something or someone.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Science

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "was first sent" is a grammatically sound and frequently used passive verb phrase. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's employed to establish a chronological starting point, indicating the initial dispatch or transmission of something. While versatile, it appears most commonly in news and media contexts. Consider using active voice alternatives for more direct writing. Remember to specify the recipient or destination to avoid any ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

was initially dispatched

Replaces "sent" with "dispatched", implying a more formal or official sending.

was originally transmitted

Uses "transmitted" to emphasize the sending of information or signals.

was initially directed

Focuses on the direction or destination of the sending.

was primarily assigned

Highlights the assignment aspect, suggesting a task or duty.

was originally consigned

Implies a formal handing over or delivery.

was first routed

Emphasizes the path or process of sending.

was initially forwarded

Suggests a sending on to another destination after an initial point.

was initially shipped

Specifically refers to sending goods or cargo.

was originally mailed

Specifically refers to sending via postal service.

was initially programmed

Relevant in technical contexts; replaces the sending with a programming one.

FAQs

How can I use "was first sent" in a sentence?

You can use "was first sent" to indicate the initial dispatch or transmission of something. For example, "The letter "was first mailed" on January 1st" or "The troops "were first dispatched" to the region last year".

What's a good alternative to "was first sent"?

Alternatives include phrases like "was initially dispatched", "was originally transmitted", or "was initially directed", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use active or passive voice with "was first sent"?

While "was first sent" is in the passive voice and grammatically correct, using the active voice (e.g., "They first sent...") can sometimes make your writing more direct and engaging. Consider the context and desired emphasis.

Which is more formal, "was first sent" or "was initially dispatched"?

"Was initially dispatched" often sounds more formal than "was first sent" due to the use of the word "dispatched", which carries a slightly more official or bureaucratic tone.