"it was demonstrated" vs "it demonstrated"

Question

"it was demonstrated" vs "it demonstrated"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'It demonstrated' is used when the subject of the sentence is the one doing the demonstrating, while 'it was demonstrated' is used when the subject is the one being demonstrated. The choice between the two depends on whether you want to emphasize the action or the passive reception of the action.

Last Updated: March 26, 2024

This phrase is used when the subject of the sentence is the one being demonstrated. It is a passive construction.

Examples:

It was demonstrated that the theory was incorrect.
The new technique was demonstrated to be effective.
The importance of teamwork was demonstrated in the project.
It was demonstrated that the product met all safety standards.
The concept was demonstrated through a series of experiments.

Alternatives:

it was shown
it was proven
it was illustrated
it was displayed
it was exhibited

This phrase is used when the subject of the sentence is the one doing the demonstrating. It is an active construction.

Examples:

The experiment demonstrated the effectiveness of the new drug.
Her presentation demonstrated her knowledge of the subject.
The teacher demonstrated the correct way to solve the math problem.
The software demonstrated its ability to detect errors.
The chef demonstrated his culinary skills in the kitchen.

Alternatives:

it showed
it proved
it illustrated
it displayed
it exhibited

Answer 1

it was demonstrated

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Answer 2

it demonstrated

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"it was demonstrated" vs "it demonstrated"

it was demonstrated

it demonstrated

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