was highly prized

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "was highly prized" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that was greatly valued or esteemed in a particular context or time period. Example: "In ancient cultures, gold was highly prized for its beauty and rarity."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Academia

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

This pungent sauce, borrowed from the Greeks, was highly prized.

The New York Times - Food

Virginity was highly prized among most of the tribes, particularly the Cheyenne.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The contract was highly prized: bidders spent millions of dollars to hire lobbyists.

The New York Times

The Romans used to pay their employees in natural salt as it was highly prized health giving product.

Harvard University

Sperm whales were also the source of ambergris, a waxy substance that was highly prized for use in perfumes.

Britannica

Celadon ware was believed to change color when poisoned food touched it; it was highly prized and in great demand in Thailand.

The New York Times - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

They are highly prized..

The Washington Post

The fruit is highly prized in Asia.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Such people are highly prized.

The Guardian - Film

The values of community are highly prized".

The New York Times - Style

Dumping privileges are highly prized on the Island.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Enhance your writing by specifying why something "was highly prized". Providing the reasons adds depth and makes your argument more compelling.

Common error

Avoid using "was highly prized" anachronistically. This phrase often implies a historical context. If describing contemporary value, consider using phrases like "is highly valued" or "is greatly appreciated" for relevance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "was highly prized" functions as a stative verb phrase, indicating a past state of being valued. It's typically used to describe the high worth or importance attributed to something in a historical or cultural context. Ludwig AI shows this phrase used in various domains.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Encyclopedias

30%

News & Media

41%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Science

13%

Academia

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "was highly prized" effectively communicates the historical significance and value placed on something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent use across various domains like encyclopedias, news, and academic texts. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly indicates who valued the item and why, to enhance the clarity and impact of your writing. Alternatives such as "was greatly valued" or "was highly esteemed" can be used for subtle variations in meaning, as discussed above in related phrases.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

was greatly valued

Emphasizes the value placed on something, focusing on its importance.

was deeply cherished

Highlights the emotional connection and affection associated with the object or concept.

was highly esteemed

Focuses on the respect and admiration something received.

was widely respected

Indicates broad recognition and regard.

was much admired

Highlights the positive feelings and appreciation it garnered.

was considered invaluable

Emphasizes the irreplaceability and critical importance of something.

was held in high regard

Focuses on the formal or official respect given.

was greatly appreciated

Highlights the thankfulness and acknowledgement.

was supremely treasured

Emphasizes the great care and value placed on something.

was seen as a virtue

Shifts the focus to a moral or ethical evaluation.

FAQs

What does "was highly prized" mean?

The phrase "was highly prized" means that something was greatly valued or esteemed, usually in a particular historical or cultural context. It suggests that the item or concept was considered important and desirable.

What can I say instead of "was highly prized"?

You can use alternatives like "was greatly valued", "was deeply cherished", or "was highly esteemed" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "was highly prized" in modern writing?

While grammatically correct, "was highly prized" often implies a historical or traditional context. For contemporary situations, consider using "is highly valued" or other present-tense alternatives to maintain relevance.

How does "was highly prized" differ from "is highly valued"?

"Was highly prized" typically refers to something that was valued in the past, while "is highly valued" refers to something currently considered important or desirable. The tense indicates the time frame of the valuation.