sat down for an interview

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sat down for an interview" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing the action of someone taking a seat to participate in an interview, typically in a professional or formal context. Example: "After arriving at the office, she sat down for an interview with the hiring manager."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

On March 5, the cardinal sat down for an interview in the parlor of his residence on Madison Avenue.

The New York Times

* The grueling 1976 election was just winding down when Jimmy Carter sat down for an interview with Playboy Magazine.

The New York Times

He also sat down for an interview on Israeli television and plans to visit Ramallah in the West Bank.

The New York Times

But when he sat down for an interview with the Guardian he seemed to be getting used to the idea.

The Guardian - Books

"THE blue coats," the actor Brandon J. Dirden whispered as he sat down for an interview in the cafeteria of The New York Times.

The New York Times

Recently Senator Rand Paul, potential presidential candidate and self-proclaimed expert on monetary issues, sat down for an interview with Bloomberg Businessweek.

The New York Times

When President Obama sat down for an interview with ABC News, it was Palin's critique of his nuclear weapons initiative that he was asked to respond to.

The New York Times

President Obama on Monday flew up to New York from Washington, rode in his motorcade to ABC's studios and sat down for an interview on "The View".

The New York Times

Joaquin Phoenix returned to the scene of his most famous television appearance - and acting performance - Wednesday night when he sat down for an interview with David Letterman.

The New York Times

Last week he sat down for an interview to discuss the similarities between the two films and his hopes for this one.

The New York Times

Sensitive to the uncertainties, attuned to the opportunities, Mr. Roberts sat down for an interview in Manhattan last week to discuss the industry's prospects.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "sat down for an interview", ensure the context clearly indicates that the person is about to be interviewed. This phrase is best used when emphasizing the physical action of taking a seat as the interview begins.

Common error

Be careful not to confuse "sat down for an interview" with phrases that only imply a meeting or conversation. The phrase specifically denotes the start of a formal interview process, not just any casual seating arrangement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sat down for an interview" primarily functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of taking a seat to begin an interview. Ludwig indicates this is grammatically correct and frequently used. It sets the scene for a formal conversation or questioning.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sat down for an interview" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe the action of someone taking a seat to start an interview. Ludwig confirms its correctness and widespread use, especially in news and media contexts. While neutral in register, it leans towards professional usage. To enhance clarity, ensure the context clearly indicates the start of a formal interview. Consider alternatives like "took a seat for an interview" or "began an interview" for different levels of formality. Understanding these nuances will improve your writing and avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

took a seat for an interview

Focuses on the physical action of sitting before the interview, adding a bit more literalness.

began an interview

A direct synonym focusing on the start of the interview process.

started an interview

Similar to 'began', but slightly more informal.

commenced an interview

Replaces the phrasal verb with a more formal verb, slightly altering the tone.

settled in for an interview

Emphasizes the act of getting comfortable before the interview.

commenced the interview process

Replaces the phrase with a slightly longer but still semantically similar expression, adding formality.

was interviewed

Shifts the focus to the act of being interviewed, omitting the action of sitting down.

met for an interview

Highlights the meeting aspect of the interview process.

embarked on an interview

A more figurative way to describe starting an interview, suggesting a journey or undertaking.

prepared for an interview

Changes the focus to preparation, implying readiness to begin.

FAQs

What does "sat down for an interview" mean?

The phrase "sat down for an interview" means that someone took a seat in order to participate in a formal interview, usually indicating the commencement of the interview process.

What can I say instead of "sat down for an interview"?

You can use alternatives like "took a seat for an interview", "began an interview", or "commenced an interview" depending on the level of formality you want to convey.

Is "sat down for an interview" formal or informal?

The phrase "sat down for an interview" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though it is more common in journalistic or news reporting.

How to use "sat down for an interview" in a sentence?

You can use "sat down for an interview" to describe someone starting an interview, for example, "The CEO "sat down for an interview" with the New York Times to discuss the company's new strategy".