was highly popular

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "was highly popular" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that was very well-liked or favored in the past. Example: "The television show was highly popular during its original run, attracting millions of viewers each week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

The scheme was highly popular in the 1980s but as the discounts decreased its popularity faded.

The Guardian

In France itself Louis XII was highly popular.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But with the faltering economy, the program was highly popular.

The New York Times

It was highly popular in the 18th century.

The New York Times

Though Idemitsu was rebuked by his own government, his action was highly popular in both countries.

The New York Times

The game was highly popular in France and England in the 19th century but declined thereafter.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

Amongst the Bleach reader base, he has been highly popular, placing high in several popularity polls.

Wikipedia

Kakashi has been highly popular with the Naruto reader base, placing high in several popularity polls.

Wikipedia

Shikamaru has also been highly popular with the Naruto reader base, placing high in several popularity polls.

Wikipedia

Moreover, Sasuke has been highly popular with the Naruto reader base, placing high in several popularity polls.

Wikipedia

Scrapers are highly popular.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "was highly popular", ensure that the context clearly indicates the time period or specific group for whom something was popular. This adds clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "was highly popular" without specifying the context. Saying "the idea was highly popular" lacks detail. Instead, specify: "the idea "was highly popular" among young voters in the 1990s".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "was highly popular" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase. It modifies a noun or noun phrase, indicating that the subject experienced a high degree of public approval or enjoyment in the past. Ludwig shows numerous examples of its use in describing historical trends, cultural phenomena, and individual figures.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

24%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "was highly popular" is a descriptive adjective phrase used to indicate that something enjoyed a high degree of public approval or enjoyment in the past. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts, particularly in news, encyclopedias, and wiki sources. While the phrase itself maintains a neutral register, specifying the timeframe and context is crucial for clarity and accuracy. For alternative phrasing, consider options such as "was extremely well-liked" or "enjoyed considerable success" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

was extremely well-liked

Replaces "popular" with a synonym and adds emphasis with "extremely".

was very favored

Uses "favored" instead of "popular" and "very" instead of "highly", softening the tone slightly.

enjoyed considerable success

Shifts the focus from popularity to achievement and positive outcomes.

was widely celebrated

Implies a more active and enthusiastic embrace than simple popularity.

was a resounding success

Focuses on the positive outcome and impact, suggesting significant achievement.

was all the rage

Emphasizes the trendiness and widespread enthusiasm during a specific period.

gained widespread acclaim

Highlights positive critical reception and public approval.

was in great demand

Focuses on the high level of request and desire for something.

became a cultural phenomenon

Indicates a deep and pervasive influence on society.

resonated with many

Suggests a strong emotional connection and agreement from a large audience.

FAQs

What are some alternatives to "was highly popular"?

You can use alternatives like "was extremely well-liked", "was very favored", or "enjoyed considerable success" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How can I use "was highly popular" in a sentence?

Use "was highly popular" to describe something that had significant appeal or acceptance during a specific time. For instance, "The 'Right to Buy' scheme "was highly popular" in the 1980s".

Is it always necessary to specify a timeframe when using "was highly popular"?

While not always mandatory, specifying a timeframe provides context and makes your statement more precise. For example, saying "disco "was highly popular" in the 1970s" is more informative than simply saying "disco "was highly popular"".

What's the difference between "was highly popular" and "is highly popular"?

"Was highly popular" indicates that something used to be well-liked but may not be anymore, while "is highly popular" suggests that something is currently well-liked. The choice depends on whether the popularity is in the past or present.