I was wired

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I was wired" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of being overly energetic, alert, or anxious, often due to caffeine or other stimulants. Example: "After drinking three cups of coffee, I was wired and couldn't sit still during the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

"I was wired up by Lester Freamon backstage," Moore explained, as she adjusted her microphone.

The New Yorker

Surprisingly, although I was wired up like the Bride of Frankenstein and watched by a camera, I drifted off almost instantly.

The New York Times - Health

As I was wired up and moved to the treadmill, the technician said that she was fascinated with the heart, had studied it and knew that "there is no way it came from an ape".

The New York Times - Magazine

"Last night I was wired and up," he says, referring to "Idiot's Delight," his Sunday show from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m., or thereabouts, that has been parked at WNEW-FM since 1996.

The New York Times

I know that many times, in my life, while living it, someone would come up and, because of I had good readiness, in terms of how I was wired, when they asked that — whatever they asked — I would just not blink, because, knowing that, if I did blink, or even wink, that is weakness, therefore you can't, you just don't.

The New Yorker

I know that many times, in my life, while living it, someone would come up and, because of I had good readiness, in terms of how I was wired, when they asked that whatever they asked—I would just not blink, because, knowing that, if I did blink, or even wink, that is weakness, therefore you can't, you just don't.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

It's the way I'm wired.

The New Yorker

"I am wired to be rational.

The Guardian

That's not how I'm wired.

The New York Times

This is how I'm wired".

The Guardian

"I think that's how I'm wired," Cantlay said.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I was wired" to convey a sense of heightened alertness or energy, especially when describing a state induced by stimulants or excitement. Ensure the context clarifies whether the state is positive (energized) or negative (anxious).

Common error

Avoid using "I was wired" in formal writing or professional settings where a more neutral or sophisticated vocabulary is expected. Opt for alternatives like "I was alert", "I was energetic", or "I was prepared" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I was wired" functions as a statement describing a temporary state of heightened energy, alertness, or anxiety experienced by the speaker. Ludwig examples show it's used to describe both positive states, like being energized for work, and negative ones, like being unable to sleep.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "I was wired" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe a state of heightened energy, alertness, or anxiety. As Ludwig AI shows, it appears frequently in news and media contexts, although it leans towards informal communication. While versatile, it's best to avoid in highly formal or professional settings, opting for more neutral alternatives like "I was alert" or "I was energetic". Remember to consider the specific context and desired tone when choosing between "I was wired" and its various synonyms.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I was hyper

Expresses a state of extreme excitement or overstimulation; more informal.

I was amped up

Similar to "I was wired" but more colloquial and emphasizes excitement.

I was energized

Focuses on the positive aspect of having abundant energy.

I was hyped up

Emphasizes the excitement and anticipation, often externally induced.

I was keyed up

Suggests a state of nervous anticipation or excitement.

I was on edge

Implies a state of anxiety or restlessness.

I was high-strung

Implies nervousness or tenseness due to stress or excitement.

I was stimulated

Indicates a state of increased mental or physical activity.

I was restless

Describes an inability to relax or stay still.

I was activated

Emphasizes being set in motion or ready for action.

FAQs

What does it mean to say "I was wired"?

Saying "I was wired" generally means you were feeling very energetic, alert, or anxious, often because of consuming caffeine or other stimulants. It describes a state of heightened awareness and activity.

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

You can use alternatives like "I was hyper", "I was energized", or "I was keyed up" depending on the context.

Is "I was wired" appropriate for formal writing?

No, "I was wired" is generally considered informal. In formal writing, it's better to use more neutral or professional terms like "I was alert" or "I was highly focused".

How can the meaning of "I was wired" change depending on the context?

The meaning can range from positive (feeling energized and productive) to negative (feeling anxious and unable to relax). The context should provide clues as to whether the state is desirable or undesirable.