willed it

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "willed it" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express the idea of having a strong desire or intention to make something happen, often in a somewhat mystical or philosophical context. Example: "She believed that she could change her fate if she truly willed it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Shakespeare willed it so.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"He willed it.

The New Yorker

It was God that willed it".

The New York Times

"He willed it," Valentine said.

The New York Times - Sports

"God willed it that way.

The Guardian - Sport

"Mashallah!" or "God has willed it," others responded.

The New York Times

He went on: "I willed it to happen to me.

The Guardian - Books

They'd waited for this and they had willed it too.

The Guardian - Sport

Whatever has happened is what Allah willed it to be.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Even though the book is politically-willed, it’s far from polemical.

The Guardian - Books

Saying "no" does not make you look weak-willed; it does not make you seem unappreciative.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "willed it" to describe situations where strong intent or determination seems to defy normal expectations or exert influence beyond typical means. It's most effective when implying a touch of the extraordinary.

Common error

Avoid using "willed it" when simpler verbs like "wanted", "caused", or "made" are more appropriate. Overuse can make your writing sound melodramatic or pretentious when describing ordinary actions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "willed it" primarily functions as a verb phrase where "willed" acts as a transitive verb, indicating the exertion of one's will to bring about a specific outcome. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness and usability. Examples show it used both with personal agency and with attributing influence to a higher power.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "willed it" is a grammatically correct and versatile phrase used to convey the idea of influencing an outcome through strong intention or determination. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a usable and effective expression in written English. While most prevalent in News & Media, it also appears in Encyclopedias and Science domains. To avoid misuse, be cautious of overusing it in mundane situations where simpler verbs suffice. Consider alternatives like "made it happen" or "brought it about" to achieve different nuances. Remember that its connotation implies more than just wanting something; it suggests exerting influence beyond typical means.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

determined it

Stresses the firmness of resolve in achieving a particular result.

made it happen

Focuses on the accomplishment of a goal through effort.

maneuvered it

Emphasizes skillful or strategic action to achieve a goal.

wished it into being

Highlights the role of desire and imagination in manifesting something.

brought it about

Emphasizes causality, often suggesting a deliberate action led to a result.

brought it to pass

A more formal way of saying something was successfully achieved.

effectuated it

Highlights the act of making something effective or operational.

decreed it

Implies authority or a decisive pronouncement influencing an event.

instigated it

Focuses on initiating or provoking an event.

ordained it

Suggests a divine or higher power influenced the outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "willed it" in a sentence?

The phrase "willed it" suggests a strong desire or intention that influences an outcome. For instance, "She closed her eyes and "willed it" to happen, hoping her team would win."

What are some alternatives to "willed it"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "made it happen", "brought it about", or "determined it" as alternatives to "willed it".

Is it correct to say "I willed for it to happen"?

While understandable, "I willed it to happen" is more grammatically concise and commonly used. The phrase "willed for it to happen" can sound awkward or redundant.

What is the connotation of "willed it"?

The phrase "willed it" often carries a connotation of strong determination, mental effort, or even a touch of the supernatural. It suggests more than just wanting something; it implies an active effort to influence the outcome through sheer force of will.