found that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "found that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you have discovered something that is true or important. Example: He conducted research and found that environmental regulations have a positive impact on the global economy.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I found that difficult.

The Guardian

I found that astonishing.

Independent

I found that really interesting.

The New York Times

Mr Major found that out.

The Economist

The Russians found that out.

The New York Times - Magazine

I found that very appealing".

The New York Times

I found that very hard.

The New York Times

I found that very interesting.

The Guardian - Film

I found that out pretty early".

The New York Times

Some found that hard to credit.

The Economist

Dubai just found that out.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "found that" in formal writing, ensure the findings are well-supported by evidence and properly cited.

Common error

Avoid using incorrect verb tenses with "found that". Ensure that the tense of the verb in the clause following "that" is appropriate for the context and the time frame of the finding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "found that" primarily functions as a verb phrase used to introduce a reported finding or conclusion. As Ludwig AI suggests, it's grammatically sound for indicating something discovered or realized. Many examples on Ludwig show this phrase being used to introduce a fact or observation derived from evidence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "found that" is a versatile and grammatically correct verb phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, used to introduce a discovery, conclusion, or realization. It is commonly found in news and media, and professional settings, indicating its suitability for both neutral and professional communication. When writing, ensure the verb tense following "that" is appropriate and supported by evidence. Alternative phrases include "discovered that", "realized that", and "determined that", each offering a slightly different nuance. Ultimately, understanding the context and intention will guide you in effectively using "found that" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

discovered that

Emphasizes the act of uncovering something previously unknown.

realized that

Highlights the moment of understanding or becoming aware.

determined that

Suggests a more formal or investigative finding.

ascertained that

Implies a careful and deliberate process of finding something out.

observed that

Focuses on noticing or perceiving something.

noticed that

Similar to observed but often less formal.

learned that

Highlights the acquisition of knowledge.

uncovered that

Suggests revealing something hidden or obscure.

recognized that

Emphasizes acknowledging or identifying something.

established that

Implies confirming or proving something.

FAQs

How to use "found that" in a sentence?

Use "found that" to introduce a discovery or conclusion drawn from evidence or observation. For example: "The study "found that" regular exercise improves cognitive function".

What can I say instead of "found that"?

You can use alternatives like "discovered that", "realized that", or "determined that" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "found that" or "find that"?

"Found that" is used when referring to a past discovery, while "find that" is used to describe a present or future discovery. For example: "Researchers "find that" new technologies enhance productivity".

What's the difference between "found that" and "discovered that"?

While both phrases are similar, "discovered that" often implies uncovering something previously hidden or unknown, whereas ""found that"" is a more general term for coming to a conclusion or realization.