were once covered by the ocean vs were once covered by an ocean

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. 'Were once covered by the ocean' is more general and can refer to any ocean, while 'were once covered by an ocean' implies a specific ocean. The choice between the two depends on the level of specificity you want to convey.

Last updated: March 27, 2024 • 841 views

were once covered by the ocean

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

This phrase is used to describe areas that were submerged under water in the past, without specifying a particular ocean.

Examples:

The fossils found in this area were once covered by the ocean.
The ancient ruins were once covered by the ocean.
The coastal regions were once covered by the ocean.

Alternatives:

were once submerged under the ocean
were once under the ocean's waters
were once beneath the ocean's surface
were once beneath the sea
were once inundated by the ocean

were once covered by an ocean

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

This phrase is used when referring to specific oceans that covered certain areas in the past.

Examples:

The landmasses were once covered by an ocean that no longer exists.
The ancient civilization was once covered by an ocean that has since receded.
The islands were once covered by an ocean during prehistoric times.

Alternatives:

were once submerged under an ocean
were once under the waters of an ocean
were once beneath the surface of an ocean
were once beneath a sea
were once inundated by an ocean

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were once covered by the ocean vs were once covered by an ocean