as matters stood

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as matters stood" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe the current situation or state of affairs at a particular moment in time. Example: "As matters stood, we had no choice but to proceed with the project despite the challenges."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

As matters stood, however, D-Wave seemed to be muddying the quantum well for money.

MIT Technology Review

As matters stood, there was no room for Jolene's cherry-pie lesson.

The New Yorker

As matters stood in May, 1962, the Vietcong had the strategic and tactical initiative, deciding when and where to fight, and on what terms.

The New Yorker

Nine identical 108 MW generators were recommended, but as matters stood, they would be able to operate only in periods of high water.

Wikipedia

Dr Reginald Dudfield concurrently published an influential paper which deplored the impossibility of international comparisons as matters stood.

Economic History Review

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

As matters stand, the crisis goes on.

The Economist

As matters stand, the EU is set to disintegrate.

The Guardian - Opinion

As matters stand today, that's a very big "if".

The Guardian

As matters stand, we are afraid that we have been doubly deceived.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

As matters stand, neither is likely to be admitted to the Hall of Fame, baseball's Valhalla.

Independent

Nor, as matters stand, is there any sign it has learned its lesson.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as matters stood" to clearly indicate the conditions or circumstances at a specific point in the past, setting the context for subsequent events or decisions.

Common error

Avoid shifting tenses when using "as matters stood". Ensure that the surrounding sentences maintain a consistent past tense to reflect the historical context accurately.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as matters stood" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a clause by providing context about the state of affairs at a particular time. It sets the scene for understanding the subsequent events. Ludwig AI confirms this with real-world examples.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as matters stood" is an adverbial phrase used to set the context by describing the state of affairs at a particular time, especially in the past. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and typically appears in news, wiki and science contexts. While it isn't the most frequently used phrase, it provides a valuable way to frame historical or situational contexts. Alternative phrases such as "as things were" or "given the circumstances" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Remember to maintain consistent tense when using this phrase to avoid grammatical errors.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as it stood then

Similar to "as matters stood" but emphasizes the standing or position of something.

as things were

Focuses more on the general state of affairs at the time.

as it then was

A more literary or formal way of saying "as it was at that time".

in the situation that existed

More formal and detailed, specifying the existence of a particular situation.

things being as they were

Similar to "as things were" but with a slightly more casual tone.

given the circumstances

Highlights the surrounding circumstances as the reason for a particular outcome.

under the prevailing conditions

Emphasizes the dominance and influence of the conditions at the time.

in light of the situation

Suggests that the situation is being considered or evaluated.

at that juncture

Highlights a specific moment or point in time when the situation was a certain way.

considering the state of affairs

Highlights a deliberate act of considering the situation.

FAQs

How can I use "as matters stood" in a sentence?

"As matters stood" is typically used to introduce a description of a situation at a specific point in the past. For example, "As matters stood, the company was facing significant financial challenges."

What phrases are similar in meaning to "as matters stood"?

Similar phrases include "as things were", "in the situation that existed", or "given the circumstances".

Is "as matters stood" formal or informal?

"As matters stood" is generally considered neutral in formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although it leans towards slightly more formal writing.

When is it appropriate to use "as matters stood"?

Use "as matters stood" when you want to emphasize the particular conditions or state of affairs at a specific time in the past, especially when it has a bearing on subsequent events or decisions.