was given to you

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "was given to you" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something was provided or assigned to someone in the past. Example: "The report was given to you last week for review."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

M. HERZOG: It must be on Page 5 of the text which was given to you.

Yale University

You've had every opportunity, it was given to you," she said.

The Guardian

I assume the bag was given to you because you purchased an insurance policy.

The New York Times - Magazine

One of these could serve as his motto: "Everything you really possess was given to you".

The New York Times - Books

What good advice was given to you when you were starting out?

The Guardian - Books

It was given to you for the potential you have to make Australia a better place".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

Your language is given to you.

The New Yorker

They are given to you.

The New York Times - Tech

Where your words are given to you.

The Guardian - Opinion

That nothing is given to you.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"It's not going to be given to you.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "was given to you", ensure the context clearly indicates who or what provided the item or opportunity. This avoids ambiguity and strengthens your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "was given to you" when a more direct, active voice would be clearer and more concise. For instance, instead of "The book was given to you by John", consider "John gave you the book."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "was given to you" functions as a passive construction, indicating that someone or something received something from an unspecified giver. Ludwig's examples showcase its use in various contexts, from receiving advice to tangible gifts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Academia

26%

Wiki

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Science

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "was given to you" is a common and grammatically correct passive construction used to indicate that someone received something. Ludwig's analysis confirms its widespread use across various contexts, including news, academia, and general communication. While versatile, it's important to consider whether an active voice might offer greater clarity and impact. When seeking alternatives, consider options such as "you received" or "was granted to you", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Avoid overusing the passive voice for clearer and more direct writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

you received

A more concise and direct way of saying something was given.

you were provided with

This emphasizes the act of supplying or furnishing something.

was granted to you

This implies permission or authorization was given.

you were furnished with

This emphasizes the act of equipping or supplying.

was bestowed upon you

This alternative suggests a formal or ceremonial granting of something.

was presented to you

This indicates a formal offering or introduction of something.

was entrusted to you

This highlights the aspect of trust or responsibility.

was handed to you

This suggests a direct, physical transfer of something.

was conferred upon you

This suggests bestowing an honor, right, or privilege.

was allotted to you

This suggests a specific portion or share was assigned.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "was given to you" in a sentence?

You can replace "was given to you" with alternatives such as "you received", "was granted to you", or "was presented to you" depending on the context.

Is it correct to use "was given to you" in formal writing?

Yes, "was given to you" is grammatically correct. However, in formal writing, consider more sophisticated alternatives like "was bestowed upon you" or "was conferred upon you" for a more refined tone.

What's the difference between "was given to you" and "was provided to you"?

"Was given to you" implies a direct act of giving, while "was provided to you" suggests supplying or furnishing something. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Can "was given to you" be replaced with an active voice?

Yes, often you can improve clarity by using the active voice. For example, instead of "The opportunity was given to you", you could say "They gave you the opportunity". This makes the sentence more direct and engaging.