was turned in

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "was turned in" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something, such as an assignment or document, has been submitted or delivered to the appropriate person or authority. Example: "The report was turned in on time, and the team was pleased with the results."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

General Usage

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

She was turned in by her mother, Adrienne.

The New York Times

Abdul Basit was turned in by Ishtiaq Parker, and was captured in Islamabad on February 6th.

The New Yorker

A few days later, Mr. Sodders was turned in by his father, Patrick Sodders.

The New York Times

Benayoun teased Pedersen and his cross was turned in by the striker.

The Guardian - Sport

But the most significant individual performance of the evening was turned in by Saints quarterback Drew Brees.

The New York Times - Sports

Ángel Di María's kick was turned in by Presnel Kimpembe, charging through unmarked to the goal-line.

The Guardian - Sport

Fittingly, the final moment was turned in by the Pittsburgh defense when linebacker LaMarr Woodley sacked Warner.

The New York Times

Wilshere was involved in the fourth, with a raking pass to Walcott, whose cross was turned in by Denis Polyakov.

The Guardian - Sport

Some accounts say that a photograph was found of him in an N.K.V.D. uniform and that he was turned in under duress by his sister.

The New York Times - Sports

The best time so far was turned in by Murielle Ahoure of the Ivory Coast, who won the first heat in 22.55.

The New York Times

Forrest's cool pass across goal was turned in by Ntcham.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "was turned in", ensure the context clearly indicates whether it refers to submitting something or betraying someone. Use additional context to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "was turned in" when an active voice would be clearer and more direct. For example, instead of "The suspect was turned in by his accomplice", consider "His accomplice turned in the suspect".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "was turned in" functions as a passive voice construction, indicating that the subject received the action of being turned in. This can refer to submitting something (like a document) or being betrayed (as Ludwig highlights).

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Sports

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "was turned in" is a versatile passive construction that can mean either something was submitted or someone was betrayed. As noted by Ludwig, its usage is common across various contexts, especially in news and sports reporting. When using this phrase, it's important to ensure clarity in the context to avoid ambiguity between submission and betrayal. While grammatically correct, opting for the active voice can sometimes create a more direct and impactful statement. Remember that context is key to understanding its precise meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

was handed over

Focuses on the act of giving something to someone, similar to submitting an item or betraying someone.

was submitted

Emphasizes the act of formally presenting something for consideration or approval.

was delivered

Highlights the act of transporting something to a specific location or person.

was betrayed

Specifically refers to revealing someone's secrets or wrongdoings, leading to their capture or exposure.

was reported

Indicates that information about someone or something was officially communicated.

was informed upon

Implies a formal accusation or report against someone.

was ratted out

Informal term for betraying someone to authorities.

was given up

Suggests someone relinquished or betrayed another person or information.

was denounced

Emphasizes a public condemnation or accusation.

was surrendered

Highlights the act of giving oneself up to an authority or enemy.

FAQs

How is "was turned in" used in a sentence?

The phrase "was turned in" indicates that someone or something was submitted or betrayed. For example, "The assignment "was turned in" on time", or "The criminal "was turned in" by an informant".

What are some alternatives to "was turned in"?

Depending on the context, alternatives include "was submitted", "was handed over", "was betrayed", or "was reported".

When is it appropriate to use "was turned in"?

Use "was turned in" when you want to emphasize the action of submitting something or betraying someone, and the receiver of the action is the focus. This is common in passive voice constructions.

What's the difference between "was turned in" and "was handed in"?

While both indicate submission, "was handed in" typically refers to physical items or documents. "Was turned in" can refer to both physical items and information, especially when someone is betrayed or reported. You can use "was handed in" for essays, but in a criminal context prefer "was turned in".