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Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
was suppressed
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "was suppressed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where something was forcibly put down, restrained, or prevented from being expressed or released. Example: "The dissenting voices in the meeting were suppressed by the dominant opinions of the group."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Encyclopedias
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
The book was suppressed.
News & Media
The list was suppressed in June 1966.
Encyclopedias
The revolt was suppressed in 345 bce.
Encyclopedias
The society was suppressed in 1896.
Encyclopedias
It was suppressed by the government.
Encyclopedias
The Portuguese Inquisition was suppressed in 1821.
Encyclopedias
He said no data was suppressed.
News & Media
His identity was suppressed by the commission.
News & Media
But with annexation, Hawaiian was suppressed.
News & Media
Hence, Naph sorption was suppressed.
Science
The Revolutionary Tribunal was suppressed on May 31 , 1795
Encyclopedias
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "was suppressed" to describe situations where information, actions, or expressions are deliberately held back or stopped, especially by an authority or force.
Common error
Avoid replacing appropriate active voice verbs with a passive construction using "was suppressed". Active voice often provides clearer and more direct communication. For example, instead of "The government was suppressed the report", use "The government suppressed the report".
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "was suppressed" functions as a passive verb phrase, indicating that the subject of the sentence underwent an action of being forcibly stopped or controlled. This grammatical structure emphasizes the recipient of the action rather than the actor. According to Ludwig AI, it is correct and frequently found in reliable sources.
Frequent in
Science
36%
News & Media
33%
Encyclopedias
19%
Less common in
Academia
9%
Wiki
3%
Formal & Business
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "was suppressed" is a grammatically correct and frequently used passive verb phrase, particularly within scientific, news, and encyclopedic contexts. It describes situations where actions or expressions are deliberately held back or stopped, often by an authority or force. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is accurate and widely applicable. While suitable for various formality levels, it's best practice to use active voice when possible for clearer communication. Alternatives include "was prevented", "was quelled", and "was stifled".
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
was prevented
Indicates that something was stopped from happening or being expressed.
was quelled
Suggests that something was subdued or brought under control, often referring to unrest or rebellion.
was stifled
Implies that something was smothered or restrained, often referring to emotions or ideas.
was restrained
Indicates that something was held back or kept in check.
was subdued
Suggests that something was brought under control or made less intense.
was repressed
Implies that something was forcibly kept out of consciousness or expression.
was inhibited
Indicates that something was hindered or slowed down.
was curtailed
Suggests that something was reduced or limited.
was censored
Implies that something was officially examined and altered or suppressed.
was hushed up
Indicates that something was kept secret or quiet, often to avoid embarrassment or scandal.
FAQs
How can I use "was suppressed" in a sentence?
The phrase "was suppressed" is used to indicate that something has been forcibly put down, restrained, or prevented from being expressed. For example: "The evidence was suppressed due to legal concerns."
What are some alternatives to "was suppressed"?
You can use alternatives such as "was prevented", "was quelled", or "was stifled" depending on the specific context.
When is it appropriate to use "was suppressed" instead of "was prevented"?
"Was suppressed" often implies a deliberate act of force or authority to stop something, whereas "was prevented" can refer to any action that hindered something from happening, regardless of intent. For example, "The rebellion was suppressed" suggests forceful action, while "The accident was prevented" implies averting an incident.
Is "was suppressed" formal or informal?
The phrase "was suppressed" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends more on the surrounding language and the overall tone of the communication.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested