was to be done

USAGE SUMMARY

"was to be done" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to describe a task or duty that was previously intended or expected to be done. For example: "The project was to be completed yesterday, but there was a delay."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

What was to be done?

The New York Times

What was to be done with them?

The New York Times - Arts

But what was to be done?

The New Yorker

Besides, what was to be done?

The New York Times - Books

But what was to be done with Luther?

Britannica

But what was to be done with this little prodigy?

The Guardian - Books

The "job" was to be done by February 2005.

The Guardian

What was to be done with it all?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But what was to be done with the territories won?

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

What is to be done about them?

The New York Times

"When constabulary duty's to be done.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "was to be done", ensure the context clearly indicates who was responsible for performing the action. This avoids ambiguity and strengthens the clarity of your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "was to be done" when an active voice construction would be more direct and impactful. For example, instead of "The report was to be done by John", consider "John was to complete the report".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "was to be done" primarily functions as a passive construction indicating a planned or scheduled action in the past. As Ludwig shows, it describes something that was intended or expected to occur. Examples demonstrate its use in specifying tasks, analyses, and actions that were part of a prior arrangement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Academia

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "was to be done" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe actions or tasks that were planned or intended in the past. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is widely used across various contexts, particularly in news, science, and formal business settings. While suitable for neutral and slightly formal communication, writers should consider whether an active voice construction might provide a more direct and impactful message. Common usage includes specifying planned activities and actions that were part of a schedule or expectation. Understanding its function and context can help writers effectively communicate past arrangements and intentions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

was intended to be carried out

Emphasizes the intention behind the action, making it slightly more formal.

was supposed to be executed

Implies an expectation that the action would happen, and may suggest non-compliance if it didn't.

was designed to be implemented

Focuses on the design or planning stage of the action, indicating it was meant to be put into practice.

was meant to have been accomplished

Emphasizes the expectation of achievement, often implying that the task may not have been completed.

was scheduled for completion

Highlights that the action was part of a timetable or plan, specifying it was to be completed at a certain time.

was arranged to take place

Highlights the arrangement or planning that went into scheduling the action.

was set to be performed

Suggests a predetermined setting or stage for the action to occur, adding a sense of formality.

was slated to occur

Suggests that the action was officially designated to happen, often in a formal or official context.

was programmed to happen

Implies that the action was part of a sequence or routine, suggesting a mechanical or automated process.

should have been effected

Emphasizes the obligation or expectation that the action should have been carried out, possibly implying a failure to do so.

FAQs

How can I use "was to be done" in a sentence?

You can use "was to be done" to indicate a planned or scheduled action in the past. For instance, "The presentation "was to be done" on Friday, but it was postponed".

What are some alternatives to using "was to be done"?

Alternatives include phrases like "was intended to be carried out", "was supposed to be executed", or "was scheduled for completion", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "was to be done" formal or informal?

"Was to be done" is generally considered neutral to slightly formal. Its formality depends on the context; it is suitable for news reports, business communications, and academic papers. Using a more active construction may sometimes be more direct and preferable.

What's the difference between "was to be done" and "had to be done"?

"Was to be done" implies a plan or arrangement, while "had to be done" suggests a necessity or obligation. For example, "The task "was to be done" according to the schedule," versus "The task "had to be done" immediately to prevent further damage".