that we used

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that we used" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to something that was previously mentioned or utilized in a specific context. Example: "The method that we used for the experiment yielded impressive results."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It is a perfectly legal, perfectly calm message that we used.

The Guardian

"You're familiar with that; we used to do that in New York".

The New York Times

"We need to re-examine the procedures that we used," he said.

The New York Times

Notice that, we used the result (4.5).

Advances in Difference Equations

When we drink it in the movie, it was the prop that we used.

Huffington Post

Remember the torture machine that we used on Birkhoff [Aaron Stanford] last year?

Huffington Post

Thus, the registration algorithm that we used is precise.

Acta Orthopaedica

It is the least-selective drug that we used.

Cell

It put us inside things that we used to only be able to see.

The Guardian - Tech

"Even though before that we used to compost our waste.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Before that we used to have to tape the nipples".

The New York Times - Style

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, ensure the antecedent of "that" is clear to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of "Remember the software that we used?", consider "Remember the data analysis software that we used for the project last year?"

Common error

Avoid using "that we used" when the object being referred to is not clear from the context. Vague references can confuse the reader. Clarify the object explicitly to maintain clarity and avoid misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that we used" functions as a relative clause, specifically a restrictive (or defining) relative clause. It modifies a noun or noun phrase by providing essential information about which specific item, method, or concept is being referred to. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "that we used" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed relative clause, utilized to specify an item or method previously mentioned. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and usable part of English. Its usage spans across various contexts, most prominently in News & Media and Science. While it maintains a neutral register, slight alterations can adjust the level of formality. When employing "that we used", ensure the antecedent is unambiguous to prevent confusion. For alternative phrasing, consider options like "the one we employed" for a more formal tone or "what we implemented" for simplicity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the one we employed

Replaces "used" with "employed", suggesting a more formal or deliberate selection.

the method we applied

Focuses specifically on a method, replacing "used" with "applied" to emphasize the implementation of a technique.

the tool we utilized

Substitutes "used" with "utilized", indicating a more formal or technical context, particularly when referring to a tool or resource.

the approach we took

Shifts the focus to the process or strategy adopted, rather than the specific item used.

what we implemented

Broadens the scope to encompass any implemented system, process, or solution.

the technique we adopted

Highlights a specific technique and the act of adopting it.

the system we had

Focuses on the system in place, rather than the action of using something.

the resources we consumed

Shifts the focus specifically to resources. Highlights the action of consuming said resources.

the procedure we followed

Highlights the process that was followed and how.

the material we worked with

Focuses on the raw materials.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "that we used" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, you could substitute "that we used" with phrases like "the one we employed", "the method we applied", or "the tool we utilized".

What's a simpler way to say "that we used"?

A simpler alternative would be "what we implemented". This option is direct and easy to understand.

Is there a difference between "that we used" and "that we utilized"?

While both phrases are grammatically correct, "utilized" is often perceived as more formal than "used". "That we utilized" might be preferred in academic or technical contexts.

When should I avoid using "that we used"?

Avoid using "that we used" if the object or concept being referenced is unclear or ambiguous. In such cases, provide more specific details to ensure clarity. For example: "The method that we used for the experiment yielded impressive results."