I was wide

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I was wide" is grammatically correct but may not be commonly used in written English without context.
It can be used to describe a state of being, such as feeling expansive or having a broad perspective, but it typically requires additional context to clarify its meaning. Example: "After the long hike, I was wide with the beauty of the landscape around me."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

"I was wide open," Jefferson said.

The New York Times - Sports

But now, now, I was wide awake.

The New York Times - Health

"At the time, I was wide open," Releford said.

The New York Times - Sports

And I was wide awake, so I really get this.

The Guardian

It was startling, exhilarating, and suddenly I was wide awake.

The Guardian - Opinion

Suddenly, I was wide awake on the couch.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

I was wide-eyed throughout.

The Guardian

"When I moved to New York, I was wide-eyed," Mr. Birbiglia said.

The New York Times

"Yes, I was wide-eyed and 18, but there were amazing people who were determined that Labour would be radical and credible, and they were getting their shit together... how do you pull it all together again?

Independent

But unlike most dreams, I was wide-awake for this one.

Huffington Post

On the ride itself I was wide-eyed by how well supported the event was.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I was wide" to describe a state of alertness, openness, or being physically broad in a specific context. Ensure clarity by adding context to specify the type of wideness you are referring to.

Common error

Avoid using "I was wide" without providing sufficient context, as it can be ambiguous. Readers might misinterpret the intended meaning if the type of wideness (e.g., awake, open, physically broad) is not clearly indicated.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I was wide" primarily functions as a statement of being, where "wide" serves as an adjective describing the state of the subject "I". This is supported by Ludwig's analysis that the phrase can describe alertness or physical breadth.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Formal & Business

7%

Science

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I was wide" is a grammatically sound expression that conveys a state of being, often implying alertness, openness, or physical breadth. As Ludwig AI has noted, its precise meaning is highly dependent on context. While common in news and media, the phrase maintains a neutral register, making it suitable for both formal and informal communication. To ensure clarity, always provide sufficient context when using this phrase, and consider alternatives like "I was fully awake" or "I was receptive" if a more specific meaning is desired. The authoritative sources highlight the phrase's usage across diverse topics, underscoring its versatility in expressing various states and conditions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I found myself wide

Adds emphasis on the discovery or realization of being in a wide state.

I became wide

Indicates a transition or process leading to a wide state.

I felt broad

Focuses on the sensation or feeling of wideness.

I experienced wideness

Highlights the experience or sensation of being wide.

I sensed a wide space

Emphasizes perception of a wide or expansive area.

I perceived wideness

Highlights the awareness or perception of being wide.

I noted the width

Focuses on observing or noticing the extent of width.

I registered the expanse

Highlights recognizing or acknowledging a wide expanse.

I expanded

Denotes an increase in size or scope, similar to wideness.

I grew broader

Implies a gradual increase in width or scope.

FAQs

How can "I was wide" be used in a sentence?

The phrase "I was wide" can be used to describe a state of being awake, open, or broad. For example, "I was wide awake all night" or "I was wide open to new ideas".

What does it mean when someone says "I was wide open"?

Saying "I was wide open" often means being receptive to new experiences, ideas, or opportunities. In sports, it can mean being in a position where one can easily receive a pass or make a shot.

Which is correct, "I was wide awake" or "I was widely awake"?

"I was wide awake" is the correct and more common expression. The adverb "widely" doesn't fit the context as well as the adjective "wide" does.

What are some alternatives to saying "I was wide awake"?

Alternatives include "I was fully awake", "I couldn't sleep", or "I was alert". The best choice depends on the specific context.