was seldom used

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "was seldom used" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is infrequently utilized or applied in a particular context. Example: "The old typewriter was seldom used, gathering dust in the corner of the room."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

Though when present, the SR was seldom used, suggesting that the trial did not actually evaluate the usefulness of this record.

Global Health Action

Such information was seldom used at the stage of priority setting and campaign phasing, but can be useful at a later microplanning phase [ 10]. District profiles provided a baseline for follow-up and for rapidly monitoring several aspects of the epidemiology of meningitis after the introduction of PsA-TT [ 10].

Clinical Infectious Diseases

The word enjoy was seldom used by itself.

The New York Times - Magazine

A few stationary cameras provided pictures; prime-time games were unheard of; instant replay was seldom used.

The New York Times - Magazine

At the time of William Cotter's threats to Dorothy, the statute was seldom used in cases involving domestic violence.

The New Yorker

By the mid-1800's, dueling had fallen from favor and was seldom used to settle disputes because it could bring assault or manslaughter charges against the victor.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

It is seldom used today.

The New Yorker

But that formal entrance is seldom used.

The New York Times

Vinegar, he says, is seldom used.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

A negligence standard is seldom used in the criminal law.

The New York Times

When the car is driven thoughtfully, the brake pedal is seldom used.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the decline of a practice or tool, use "was seldom used" to emphasize its reduced role over time. For instance: "The quill and ink were seldom used after the invention of the printing press."

Common error

Ensure the context clearly identifies who or what was not using the subject. Overusing passive voice without a clear agent can make the writing vague. Instead of "Mistakes were seldom used as learning opportunities", be specific: "Teachers seldom used mistakes as learning opportunities".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "was seldom used" functions as a passive voice construction, indicating that the subject received the action of 'using' infrequently. Ludwig's examples show it describing tools, methods, or resources that saw limited application.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

32%

Wiki

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "was seldom used" is a grammatically sound and versatile phrase used to express that something was infrequently utilized. Ludwig AI analysis indicates its frequent presence in scientific and news-related content, pointing to its effectiveness in formal contexts. As Ludwig confirms, the phrase is valid and easily understood. Be aware of possible passive voice overuse, prioritize clarity by stating the agent of action and use varied alternatives provided to improve writing style and prevent unnecessary repetition.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

was rarely utilized

Emphasizes the infrequency of use; 'utilize' is slightly more formal than 'use'.

was infrequently employed

Similar to 'rarely utilized', but with a stronger emphasis on a deliberate or purposeful lack of use.

was not often used

A more straightforward and less formal way of expressing infrequent use.

was almost never used

Similar to 'hardly ever used', but slightly less emphatic.

was hardly ever used

Highlights the extreme rarity of use.

was sparingly applied

Suggests a deliberate limitation in the application or use of something.

was exceptionally uncommon

Focuses on the rarity and unusual nature of its use.

saw little application

Shifts the focus to the lack of application rather than direct usage.

remained largely unused

Implies that something was available but not taken advantage of.

was kept in reserve

Suggests an intentional holding back from use, implying potential future use.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "was seldom used" to sound more formal?

You can use alternatives such as "was rarely utilized" or "was infrequently employed" in more formal contexts. These options offer a slightly elevated tone compared to the original phrase.

What's the difference between "was seldom used" and "was never used"?

"Was seldom used" indicates that something was used occasionally, but not often. On the other hand, "was never used" means it was not used at all. The first implies infrequent use, while the second indicates a complete absence of use.

Is "was seldom used" grammatically correct?

Yes, "was seldom used" is grammatically correct. It's a passive construction indicating that the subject of the sentence was not frequently used by someone or something.

What are some common situations where "was seldom used" is appropriate?

This phrase is appropriate when describing outdated technology, declining practices, or resources that are available but not frequently taken advantage of. For example, "The library's microfilm reader "was seldom used" after the introduction of digital archives."