were swept out

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "were swept out" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something being forcefully removed or carried away, often by a natural force like water or wind. Example: "After the storm, many of the fallen leaves were swept out of the garden by the strong winds."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He was happy to let them fall on the floor, where they were swept out with the trash.

The New York Times

The agency's two commissioners and executive staff members were swept out and new leadership has since been installed.

The New York Times

He was one of 92 hereditary peers allowed to stay in the House of Lords after hundreds were swept out by the Labor government of Prime Minister Tony Blair in a divisive reform measure of 1999.

The New York Times

Two others were swept out by a huge wave but were able to swim to shore.

BBC

Diaz-Balart and Nunes (Portuguese, actually) were swept out, along with Pearce and Farenthold.

Huffington Post

In 1932 when FDR and the Democrats were swept into power, most of the Republicans at all levels of power were swept out along with Herbert Hoover.

Huffington Post

In the coastal region of Legaspi, home to a large volcano, 150 houses were demolished due to storm surge, 25 of which were swept out at sea.

Wikipedia

The previous season, they were swept out by three pitchers who can go to Cooperstown only with a ticket, the Cincinnati Reds' Pete Schourek, John Smiley and David Wells.

Los Angeles Times

On Saturday night, the D-Fenders (second seed) were swept out by the Santa Cruz Warriors (sixth seed), falling 138-126 at home in El Segundo at the Toyota Sports Center.

Los Angeles Times

They made the playoffs just twice, in 2004 and 2011, and were swept out each time.

The New Yorker

In 1952, the range was 8.1percentt, and the Democrats were swept out of office.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "were swept out" to describe the removal of people from power, ensure that the context clearly indicates a significant shift or ousting, rather than a simple resignation or departure.

Common error

Avoid using "were swept out" in situations where a more nuanced verb would be appropriate. For instance, use "resigned" or "retired" instead of "were swept out" when describing someone voluntarily leaving a position.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "were swept out" functions as a passive verb phrase, indicating that the subject of the sentence experienced an action rather than performing it. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

28%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "were swept out" is a versatile and grammatically sound passive verb phrase used to describe a forceful or comprehensive removal, as validated by Ludwig AI. It frequently appears in news and media, with usage also noted across encyclopedia, academic and scientific contexts. While it is generally neutral in tone, the context can influence its formality. When writing, ensure the context aligns with a significant shift or ousting, and avoid overuse in situations where a more nuanced verb is appropriate. Considering alternatives like "were ousted", "were forcibly removed", or "were washed away" can add precision to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

were ousted

Focuses on removal from a position or place, often in a political or organizational context.

were forcibly removed

Emphasizes the use of force in the act of removal.

were washed away

Specifically relates to removal by water, like in a flood or storm.

were carried off

Suggests movement to another location, often by an external force.

were driven out

Implies being forced to leave a place or situation.

were cleared out

Focuses on the act of making a space empty by removing contents.

were evacuated

Implies a systematic removal of people from a dangerous area.

were uprooted

Suggests a disruptive removal, often from a familiar environment.

were displaced

Highlights the state of being forced from one's home or usual environment.

were overthrown

Indicates a forceful removal from power or authority.

FAQs

How can I use "were swept out" in a sentence?

The phrase "were swept out" is used to describe a situation where something or someone is forcefully removed, either literally (by wind or water) or figuratively (from a position of power). For instance, "The old regime "were swept out" during the revolution."

What are some alternatives to "were swept out"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "were swept out" include "were ousted", "were forcibly removed", or "were washed away". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "was swept out" instead of "were swept out"?

The correct form depends on the subject. Use "was swept out" for singular subjects (e.g., "The old chair was swept out") and "were swept out" for plural subjects (e.g., "The old chairs were swept out").

What's the difference between "were swept out" and "were forced out"?

"Were swept out" often implies a more comprehensive or overwhelming removal, while "were forced out" suggests a more targeted or deliberate action. For example, a political party might be "swept out" of power in an election, whereas an individual might be "forced out" due to scandal.