was obeyed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "was obeyed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone or something was followed or adhered to in the past. Example: "The rules were strict, and they were always followed; every command was obeyed without question."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

The order was obeyed, after a fashion.

The New York Times

In the end, the insiders-only principle was obeyed.

The Guardian - Business

"Military police were posted to ensure that the order was obeyed.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

As a letter from the US embassy to the state department in 1968 revealed, the order was obeyed.

The Guardian - Business

The experiment provided the most precise direct verification to date of the inverse square law and showed, to a confidence limit of 95%, that the inverse square law was obeyed down to a distance of 55 micrometres (0.002 in).

Encyclopedia Britannica

She stepped down from the card table where she had sat all day, with only a short break for lunch; a call went out for the company to assemble and it was obeyed instantaneously.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

I was obeying the rules!

The New Yorker

Kelly Duncan Moore lived because she was obeying regulations.

The New York Times - Magazine

"His wishes must be obeyed.

The New York Times - Magazine

Rules of grammar need not be obeyed.

The New York Times - Sports

Used to being obeyed, she is willful.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "was obeyed", ensure that the subject performing the obeying action is clearly identified, either directly or through context, to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "was obeyed" when referring to ongoing or habitual actions. Use "is obeyed" or "is being obeyed" for present tense, and "will be obeyed" for future tense.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "was obeyed" functions as a passive verb phrase. It indicates that a subject (an order, rule, or law) received the action of obeying. Ludwig provides numerous examples illustrating its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

37%

News & Media

37%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "was obeyed" functions as a passive verb phrase, indicating that a rule or order was followed. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. The phrase is most frequently found in scientific and news contexts, suggesting a neutral register. When writing, ensure the subject performing the action is clear. Alternatives such as "was complied with" or "was followed" can offer nuanced variations. Overall, "was obeyed" is a common and versatile phrase for describing compliance in the past.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

was complied with

This alternative emphasizes adherence to specific regulations or requirements.

was adhered to

This phrase highlights a commitment to following a particular principle or standard.

was followed

This term is a more general way of saying something was done as instructed.

was respected

This implies that the rule or command was not only followed, but also regarded with a degree of importance.

was enforced

Focuses on the action taken to ensure compliance with a rule or law.

was observed

Implies a careful and deliberate act of following a rule or custom.

was heeded

Indicates that attention was paid and action taken based on a warning or instruction.

was honored

Suggests that a commitment or agreement was faithfully upheld.

was executed

This refers to the carrying out of a plan, order, or course of action.

was implemented

This refers to putting a decision or plan into effect.

FAQs

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

The phrase "was obeyed" is used to indicate that an order, rule, or law was followed. For example, "The general's command "was obeyed" without question".

What are some alternatives to "was obeyed"?

Alternatives to "was obeyed" include phrases such as "was complied with", "was followed", or "was adhered to", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "the order was obeyed by everyone"?

Yes, "the order was obeyed by everyone" is grammatically correct. It clarifies who performed the action of obeying.

What's the difference between "was obeyed" and "is obeyed"?

"Was obeyed" refers to a past action, indicating that something was followed at a specific time in the past. "Is obeyed" indicates that something is generally followed or is being followed in the present.