were taken

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "were taken" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something was done in the past. For example, "The valuables were taken from the safe."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

All were taken.

The New York Times - Arts

People were taken aback".

The New York Times - Sports

His goods were taken.

The New Yorker

They were taken seriously.

The New York Times - Arts

Risks were taken.

The New Yorker

Blood tests were taken.

The New Yorker

None were taken alive.

The New Yorker

Many photographs were taken.

The New Yorker

Vast spoils were taken.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Attendees were taken aback.

The New York Times

But nine were taken hostage.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "were taken", ensure the subject clearly identifies what or who was acted upon. This helps maintain clarity and avoids ambiguity in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "were taken" when the active voice is more direct and clear. For example, instead of "Mistakes were taken", consider "They made mistakes".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "were taken" functions as a passive verb construction, indicating that the subject of the sentence received the action. Ludwig AI's examples show its use in contexts where something was removed, captured, or acted upon.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "were taken" is a passive verb phrase used to indicate that something or someone was acted upon in the past. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various domains. Its neutral register makes it appropriate for diverse writing styles, from formal reports to news articles. While grammatically sound, consider active voice alternatives for more direct and concise writing. Remember that the choice between active and passive voice depends on whether you want to emphasize the actor or the action itself.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

were removed

Simplifies the phrase to a past passive form indicating something was removed.

were seized

Represents a past passive action of forcefully taking something.

had been removed

Focuses on the action of removal in the past perfect tense, implying completion before another point in time.

were captured

Focuses on the past passive action of capturing, suggesting overcoming resistance.

had been captured

Specifies the action as one of capturing or seizing something in the past, often implying force or difficulty.

had been seized

Highlights the act of taking something forcefully or suddenly in the past.

had been received

Emphasizes the action of receiving something in the past, often implying acceptance or welcome.

were confiscated

Specifies the past passive action of having something taken away by authority.

were obtained

Indicates that something was acquired or gained in the past.

were acquired

Highlights the past action of gaining or obtaining something, possibly over time.

FAQs

How can I use "were taken" in a sentence?

The phrase "were taken" indicates that someone or something was acted upon in the past. For example, "The photos were taken at the park" or "All precautions "were taken" to ensure safety".

What's a more direct alternative to "were taken"?

Depending on the context, you can use active voice constructions like "someone took" or "they captured". For instance, instead of "Measurements were taken", you could say "Scientists took measurements".

Is it better to use active or passive voice with "were taken"?

While "were taken" is grammatically correct, active voice can often be more concise and direct. Consider whether the actor or the action is more important to your sentence's meaning.

What are some examples of when using "were taken" is appropriate?

"Were taken" is suitable when the actor is unknown or unimportant, or when you want to emphasize the action rather than the actor. Example: "The necessary steps "were taken"".