what was told

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "what was told" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to information or messages that have been communicated or conveyed by someone. Example: "I can only act on what was told to me during the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

I just know it was a pec injury is what was told to me.

The New York Times

"I do not know what was told to the officers that arrived, but they left the call at 6.40pm," Walker said.

The Guardian

Detective Turetzky has never said what he told the sergeants and the captain, nor have they disclosed what was told to them.

The New York Times

A. That's what our conversation – my conversation with one of the partners at Friehling & Horowitz – that's what was told to me.

The Guardian - Business

It would be hurtful to retract the invitation, and there is no possible way to give him an explanation without revealing what was told to you in confidence by your female friend.

The New York Times

"Again," Schaffer said, "if you're going to characterize it as voluntary — what was told to her to get her to take those pills?" "She was thirty-one years old, and she put them in her mouth," McMonagle said.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

What is told and narrated is transformed into text which must be interpreted and a hermeneutic analysis is used.

BMC Psychiatry

and (4) How often do you have a problem understanding what is told to you about your medical condition?

BMC Health Services Research

But here's what's telling.

The New York Times

What is telling is that there are only two spaces.

The Economist

What is telling is how many humorous responses there are.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "what was told", ensure the context clearly indicates who did the telling. This adds clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

While grammatically correct, excessive use of passive voice like "what was told" can make your writing sound weak. Consider rephrasing to active voice when possible for a stronger impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "what was told" functions as a noun clause, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use in reporting information or conveying instructions. This aligns with Ludwig AI indicating its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Academia

7%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "what was told" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that functions as a noun clause, primarily to relay information or report on past communications. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage. Its neutral register makes it suitable for a wide range of contexts, although careful consideration of active vs passive voice is recommended. Analysis of Ludwig examples reveals its frequent appearance in News & Media and Scientific publications, indicating its reliability in formal communication. For alternative phrasing, consider "what was said" or "the information conveyed" for similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the information conveyed

Emphasizes the information itself rather than the act of telling.

the message imparted

Highlights the act of giving or bestowing the message.

the statement made

Focuses on a formal declaration or announcement.

the details shared

Implies a more personal or informal exchange of information.

the account given

Suggests a narrative or description of events.

the facts presented

Highlights the presentation of objective information.

the briefing provided

Indicates a formal and concise presentation of information.

the instructions issued

Emphasizes commands or directives.

the explanation offered

Highlights the providing of reasons or justifications.

the word received

Focuses on the act of obtaining the information.

FAQs

How can I use "what was told" in a sentence?

You can use "what was told" to refer to information that has been communicated. For example, "I'm relying on "the information conveyed" to make my decision."

What's a more direct alternative to "what was told"?

Consider using "what was said" as a more concise and active alternative to "what was told".

Is it always necessary to specify who "told" the information when using "what was told"?

While not always grammatically required, specifying the source of information clarifies the context and strengthens the credibility of "the account given".

What's the difference between "what was told" and "what I was told"?

"What I was told" specifically indicates that the speaker is referring to information they personally received. "What was told" is more general and may refer to "the message imparted" to a group or unspecified recipient.