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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
mice were used
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "mice were used" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing experiments, studies, or research involving mice as subjects or models. Example: "In the study on the effects of the new drug, mice were used to test its efficacy and safety."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
Homozygous conditional mice were used as controls.
Science & Research
Both male and female mice were used.
Science & Research
Male mice were used for all experiments.
Science & Research
dTan3D-Bl6 mice were used as controls.
Science & Research
Only male mice were used in experiments.
Science & Research
CD4Cre Prdm1fl/+ mice were used as controls.
Science & Research
For quantification, 4 6 mice were used for each genotype.
Science & Research
Naïve mice were used as a negative control.
Science & Research
Two strains of mice were used in these experiments.
Science & Research
Forty-five mice were used in this study.
Science & Research
Different groups of mice were used for different experiments.
Science & Research
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When describing experimental procedures, ensure clarity by specifying the strain, sex, and age of the "mice were used".
Common error
Avoid vague statements. Instead of just stating "mice were used", provide details about the number of mice, their genetic background, and any relevant pre-treatment conditions.
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "mice were used" typically functions as part of the passive voice in a sentence, indicating that mice were the recipients of an action. Ludwig AI shows this passive construction is common in scientific writing, where the focus is often on the experiment rather than the experimenter.
Frequent in
Science
100%
Less common in
News & Media
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Formal & Business
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Academia
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Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "mice were used" is a grammatically correct and very common expression, predominantly found in scientific literature to describe experimental methodology. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this passive voice construction serves to report that mice served as subjects in a study. While clear and concise, you should provide specific details regarding the mice (strain, sex, age) to avoid vagueness. Alternatives such as "mice were employed" or active voice constructions (e.g., "researchers used mice") can be considered based on the desired formality and emphasis.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
mice served as
Emphasizes the role or function the mice had in a study or experiment.
mice were employed
A more formal alternative, suggesting a deliberate and specific use of the mice.
mice were tested
Focuses on the action performed on the mice, namely being tested or experimented on.
mice were subjected to
Highlights that the mice experienced something, often an experimental condition.
mice participated in
Suggests a more active involvement of the mice in the study, although still passive.
mice underwent
Emphasizes the process or procedure that the mice experienced.
the study involved mice
Shifts the focus to the study itself, indicating that mice were part of it.
mice were part of the study
Similar to the previous alternative, highlighting the mice's inclusion in the study.
researchers used mice
Active voice version that places the focus on the researchers and their actions.
mice factored into
Suggests mice were one component of a larger thing.
FAQs
How can I rephrase "mice were used" to sound more formal?
For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "mice were employed" or "mice served as models". These options add a layer of sophistication to your writing.
What details should I include when stating "mice were used" in a research paper?
Always specify the strain, sex, age or weight range, and any specific characteristics of the mice. For example, "Female Balb/C "mice were used" at 8-12 weeks of age" provides more context.
Is it better to use active or passive voice when describing the use of mice in a study?
While ""mice were used"" (passive voice) is common, using the active voice (e.g., "researchers used mice") can make your writing more direct and engaging. The choice depends on the desired emphasis.
What are some alternatives to ""mice were used"" if I want to emphasize the mice's role?
If you want to emphasize the role of the mice, consider using phrases like "mice served as" or "mice were utilized as" to highlight their function in the study.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested