I was informed that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I was informed that" is correct and can be used in formal written English.
It is used when you want to attribute information to a specific source. For example, "I was informed that the meeting has been cancelled."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Soon, I was informed that JK Rowling lived nearby.

The Guardian - Opinion

I was informed that Nick was in a hospital emergency room in Brooklyn after an overdose.

The New York Times - Magazine

However, I was informed that he had told doctors that he never wanted to be intubated.

The New York Times

One summer day I was informed that Mr. McKelway had turned up and needed baby-sitting.

The New York Times - Books

In the middle of the school year, I was informed that my position was being eliminated.

The New York Times

In January, I was informed that my account showed that a refund had been processed.

The New York Times

I was informed that the result of my blood test was negative for the Ebola virus.

The Guardian

I was informed that I would not be allowed to get a dog.

The New York Times

I was informed that I would not be arrested and put on the next flight.

The Guardian

"I was informed that light, view and big windows are not important," she said.

The New York Times

But I was informed that this wasn't how the secretary of state was spending his time.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "I was informed that", ensure the source of the information is credible, especially in formal writing. This adds weight to your statement and avoids potential misinterpretations.

Common error

While "I was informed that" is grammatically correct, excessive use of passive voice can make your writing sound weak. Consider rephrasing sentences to use active voice where appropriate for a more direct and engaging style.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I was informed that" functions as a reporting clause, introducing information that the speaker has received. It serves to attribute the information to an external source, establishing that the speaker is relaying, not necessarily endorsing, the information. As evidenced by Ludwig, this construction is commonly found in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Science

7%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I was informed that" is a highly frequent and grammatically sound phrase used to introduce information received from an external source. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage. Its neutral-to-professional register makes it suitable for diverse contexts, particularly in news, academic and professional settings. While it is effective for conveying information, it's crucial to be mindful of overusing the passive voice and to ensure the credibility of your sources. By understanding these nuances, you can effectively use "I was informed that" to communicate information with clarity and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I was told that

A more casual alternative, less emphasis on the formality of the information transfer.

I was notified that

Highlights the act of being officially notified of something.

I learned that

More direct and less formal.

I received information that

Emphasizes the receipt of the information, suitable for formal contexts.

It was reported to me that

More formal and emphasizes the reporting aspect.

I was advised that

Indicates that the information came in the form of advice.

I gathered that

Indicates an inference based on available information, rather than direct informing.

I understood that

Focuses on comprehension rather than the act of being informed.

I ascertained that

Suggests a more deliberate process of finding out information.

I came to understand that

Emphasizes a gradual realization or understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "I was informed that" in a sentence?

Use "I was informed that" to introduce information you received from someone or something. For example, "I was informed that the meeting has been postponed".

What can I say instead of "I was informed that"?

You can use alternatives like "I learned that", "I was told that", or "I received notification that" depending on the context.

Is it okay to use "I was informed that" in formal writing?

Yes, "I was informed that" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when you need to indicate the source of your information. However, avoid overusing passive voice.

What's the difference between "I was informed that" and "I heard that"?

"I was informed that" typically implies a more formal or official communication of information, while "I heard that" suggests a more casual or informal source. Use "I was informed that" when the source is reliable or authoritative and use "I heard that" when the source is not official or not completely reliable.