that were used

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that were used" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to items, methods, or concepts that were previously employed or applied in a particular context. Example: "The tools that were used in the experiment were carefully documented for future reference."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

He added that he had "some questions about the methods that were used in some of these studies and the methods that were used to extrapolate from them".

The New York Times

"I have one of the bandoliers that were used by Carson's Ulster Volunteer Force.

The Guardian

Nearby, they found foundations of buildings that were used for storing agriculture products.

The New York Times

More recently, he built large, powerful explosives that were used against Israeli tanks in Gaza.

The New York Times

"We started with lanes that were used both by cyclists and pedestrians.

The Guardian

Stathos was paid four hundred dollars for each of the five songs that were used.

The New Yorker

The book includes photographs and maps locating the studios that were used by the artists.

The Guardian - Travel

The Blackhawk helicopters that were used to scan the waters and the woods have been grounded.

The New York Times

Nor is it worth the effort to argue about the economic assumptions that were used.

The New York Times

The caption also referred incorrectly to 1990 data that were used to formulate the treaty.

The New York Times

And it has removed reproductions that were used previously to represent certain rarer, "old master" designs.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing past events or processes, use "that were used" to clearly indicate the tools, methods, or resources employed. This helps provide context and clarity for your audience.

Common error

Avoid using the phrase "that were used" when referring to something currently in use. Use "that are used" instead to indicate present usage.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that were used" functions as a relative clause modifying a noun. It provides additional information about the noun by specifying that it was previously employed or utilized in some way. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable status.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Science

45%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "that were used" functions as a relative clause to specify that something was employed in the past. Ludwig AI indicates its correctness and usability. It appears frequently in news and media, as well as in scientific writing, suggesting a neutral register. When writing, ensure you use the correct tense and avoid using the phrase when referring to something currently in use. Consider alternatives like "that were employed" or "that were utilized" for variety. By understanding these nuances, you can use "that were used" effectively in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that had been utilized

Emphasizes the process of utilization prior to the current context.

that were employed

Focuses on the act of putting something into service or use.

that were applied

Highlights the act of putting something to a specific purpose or task.

that were implemented

Stresses the execution or carrying out of a plan or method.

that were adopted

Indicates the act of choosing and using something.

that were exercised

Highlights the act of exerting or applying a skill or power.

that were harnessed

Focuses on controlling and using natural resources or power.

that were leveraged

Emphasizes the use of something to maximize an advantage or outcome.

which had been in use

Indicates a state of being used for a period of time.

that were in service

Suggests a formal or official use of something.

FAQs

How can I use "that were used" in a sentence?

Use "that were used" to describe something employed or utilized in the past. For example, "The techniques "that were used on detainees" included painful stress positions."

What are some alternatives to "that were used"?

You can use alternatives such as "that were employed", "that were utilized", or "that were applied" depending on the context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "that was used" instead of "that were used"?

The choice between "that was used" and "that were used" depends on whether you're referring to a singular or plural noun. Use "that was used" for singular nouns and "that were used" for plural nouns.

What's the difference between "that were used" and "that are used"?

"That were used" refers to something employed in the past, while "that are used" refers to something currently being employed. The tense indicates the time frame of the usage.