I was high

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I was high" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of intoxication, typically from drugs or alcohol, in a casual or informal context. Example: "After the party, I realized that I was high and needed to take a break from substances."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

I was scared when I was high.

The Guardian - Sport

I was high when I did it.

The New Yorker

"I was high as shit on painkillers.

The Guardian - Music

I was high on blood - talk about blood doping.

The New York Times

I was high on mushrooms for a long, long time".

Independent

— And? — I was high as a fuckin' kite.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

The phenotypic correlation between CBCL-AP and the CPRS-R S ADHD-I was high (r = .75).

Behavior Genetics

I was high-stepping.

The New York Times - Sports

"I thought I was high-level Method acting.

The New Yorker

I was high-spirited but I was a big reader.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I thought I was higher.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "I was high", consider your audience and the context. In formal writing or professional settings, opt for more neutral or clinical terms like "intoxicated" or "under the influence".

Common error

Avoid using "I was high" in situations requiring precision or formality, such as legal documents or medical reports. The casual nature of the phrase can undermine the seriousness of the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I was high" functions as a statement expressing a past state of being under the influence of a substance. It conveys a subjective experience and is often used in personal narratives or explanations. As Ludwig confirms, it is a valid phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "I was high" is a common and grammatically correct way to express a past state of being under the influence of drugs or alcohol. While Ludwig's analysis confirms its validity and frequent use, especially in News & Media contexts, it's essential to consider the register and audience. In formal settings, alternatives like "I was intoxicated" or "I was under the influence" are more appropriate. Despite its prevalence, being mindful of the context ensures clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I was stoned

Common term specifically referring to the effects of cannabis.

I was intoxicated

Replaces the informal term "high" with a more formal synonym indicating a state of being affected by alcohol or drugs.

I was under the influence

Uses a legalistic and neutral term for being affected by a substance, often used in official contexts.

I was inebriated

Employs a formal and somewhat old-fashioned term for being drunk or intoxicated.

I was doped up

Indicates a state of being heavily medicated or under the influence of drugs, often with a negative connotation.

I was spaced out

Suggests a state of detachment or mental fogginess, often associated with drug use or fatigue.

I was tripping

Specifically refers to the experience of hallucinating or having altered perceptions, usually due to psychedelic drugs.

I was wasted

Implies a state of extreme intoxication, often to the point of being incapacitated.

I was flying high

Uses a metaphorical expression to describe a state of euphoria or elation, often associated with drug use.

I had taken drugs

Describes the action taken that led to the state of being high.

FAQs

What does it mean when someone says "I was high"?

Saying "I was high" typically means the person experienced a state of altered perception or sensation, usually due to the influence of drugs or alcohol. The intensity and effects vary depending on the substance and individual.

What can I say instead of "I was high"?

You can use alternatives like "I was intoxicated", "I was under the influence", or "I was inebriated" depending on the context and level of formality required.

Is it appropriate to use the phrase "I was high" in formal writing?

No, the phrase "I was high" is generally not appropriate for formal writing. It is best to use more neutral or clinical terms like "I was intoxicated" or "I was under the influence".

What's the difference between saying "I was high" and "I was drunk"?

While both indicate altered states, "I was high" usually implies the use of drugs, whereas "I was drunk" specifically refers to alcohol intoxication. However, "I was intoxicated" or "I was under the influence" can be used as umbrella terms.