previously we were

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "previously we were" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a past state or condition involving a group that includes the speaker and others. Example: "Previously we were working on the project together, but now we have split into different teams."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

"Previously, we were stumbling in the dark".

The New York Times - Science

Previously, we were served by a traditional, well-established paper, the Herts and Essex Observer.

The Guardian

Previously, we were able to heterologously express the brasilicardin gene cluster in the nocardioform actinomycete Amycolatopsis japonicum.

Synthetic and Systems Biotechnology

"Previously we were sending viral loads to Blantyre, which could take a minimum of a month, but sometimes three months before we got the results".

The Guardian

Previously we were free to sort our own rubbish and deposit it in discreet containers in the street, metres from the door.

The Guardian

Previously we were able to capture some key aspects of such scaling by treating Y or ΔY as standard sub-Gaussian random functions.

Journal of Hydrology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

"We can respond much more quickly than previously; we are getting there," says Mr Twiddy.

The Economist

"As we have said previously, we are aware of the allegations but will decline further comment at this time," he said in an email.

The Guardian

Since the designs with automorphisms of odd prime orders have been constructed previously, we are left with the construction of the designs with automorphisms of order 2.

Discrete Mathematics

A BBC spokesperson said: "We've said previously we are very sorry that Sir Cliff has suffered distress but we have a duty to report on matters of public interest and we stand by our journalism".

The Guardian

Echoing what I've written about previously, we are rapidly entering the Age of Transformation.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "previously we were", ensure the context clearly indicates what the current state or situation is for contrast. This enhances clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "previously we were" without providing the contrasting current state. This can leave the reader wondering about the significance of the past state.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "previously we were" functions as an introductory phrase to provide context by referring to a past state or condition. Ludwig AI shows its usage across various domains, highlighting its role in setting up a comparison or contrast with a current situation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

31.67%

News & Media

30%

Academia

8.33%

Less common in

Wiki

1.67%

Formal & Business

1.67%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "previously we were" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to reference a past state or condition, as affirmed by Ludwig. It serves to provide context, usually emphasizing a subsequent change or transition. While its formality is generally neutral, its use skews toward news, science, and academic settings. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity by providing the context of both the past and current situations. Ludwig’s examples demonstrate its versatility and widespread acceptance in diverse writing scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

In the past, we used to be

This alternative places more emphasis on a habitual action or state in the past.

Before, our situation was

This alternative is slightly more formal and focuses on the prior state of affairs.

Earlier, we had been

This alternative suggests a state that existed for some time before a certain point.

We formerly were

This alternative uses a more formal tone with the adverb "formerly".

Prior to this, we functioned as

This alternative highlights the previous function or role.

Previously, our approach involved

This focuses on a change in approach or methodology.

At one point, we were

This alternative emphasizes a specific period in the past.

Initially, we commenced by

This alternative stresses the start or beginning of a process.

We once operated under the assumption

This highlights a past belief or guiding principle.

Our initial setup consisted of

This refers specifically to a previous arrangement or configuration.

FAQs

How can I use "previously we were" in a sentence?

Use "previously we were" to contrast a past state with a current one, for example: "Previously we were focused on domestic sales, but now we are expanding internationally".

What phrases are similar to "previously we were"?

Alternatives include "in the past we used to be", "before our situation was", or "earlier we had been", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "previously we were"?

Yes, "previously we were" is grammatically correct. It's a common and acceptable way to refer to a past state or condition that has since changed.

What's the difference between "previously we were" and "we used to be"?

"Previously we were" is generally used to highlight a specific change or transition, while "we used to be" emphasizes a habitual or ongoing state in the past. "Previously" often implies a more formal context.