there were seasons when

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "there were seasons when" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe specific periods or times in the past characterized by certain events or experiences. Example: "There were seasons when the town would come alive with festivals and celebrations, drawing visitors from far and wide."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

There were seasons when we did not have proper shoes.

The Guardian - Opinion

There were seasons when Wallace averaged 18 to 19 points, 7 to 10 rebounds and 1.5 steals a game, and a handful when he averaged at least a block.

The New York Times - Sports

(It's no surprise to hear that, in the 1950s and '60s, there were seasons when the public failed to fill the theater, but when many of New York's intellectuals and avant-garde artists returned night after night).

The New York Times - Arts

4) There were seasons when Florida at Georgia in Jacksonville, Fla., was one of the most anticipated games of the year.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

There were seasons in my life when this question plagued me, and other times when it was merely a passing thought.

Huffington Post

But there were later seasons when he played in most games.

The Guardian - Books

Some players still hold onto grudges, though; there was a season when I refused to have The Vile Turncoat Robin van Persie in my team, even when he was the league's top points-scorer.

Vice

There were three different seasons when he did not have more than three receptions.

The New York Times - Sports

Last season there were occasions when they could only name four substitutes.

The Guardian - Sport

Last season there were times when guys earning millions between them couldn't get into the Worcester side.

The Guardian - Sport

I know myself that last year wasn't my best season but there were times when I was playing in different positions.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "there were seasons when" to describe recurring patterns or periods characterized by specific circumstances or events. This framing can add a sense of rhythm or natural progression to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "there were seasons when" to describe single, isolated events. This phrase implies a recurring pattern or a distinct period within a larger timeframe. For isolated events, opt for phrases like "there was a time when" or "on one occasion".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "there were seasons when" functions as an introductory clause establishing a temporal context. It sets the stage for describing recurring events or conditions that occurred during specific periods. Ludwig AI confirms the correct usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "there were seasons when" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in English, typically functioning as a relative clause to introduce recurring events or conditions during specific periods. Ludwig AI confirms that it's appropriate for setting a temporal context, especially within neutral registers like news and media. Though its overall usage is uncommon, understanding its function and purpose can enhance clarity and rhythm in writing. Remember to avoid using it for single, isolated events and ensure it accurately reflects a recurring pattern or distinct period.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

there were times when

Focuses on specific instances rather than extended periods; less emphasis on duration.

there were periods when

Emphasizes defined durations, suggesting a more structured timeframe than "seasons".

there were instances where

Highlights individual occurrences instead of recurring periods.

there were occasions when

Similar to 'instances,' but suggests a more formal or noteworthy occurrence.

during some eras

Shifts focus to broader historical or personal eras, implying longer durations.

in certain phases

Emphasizes cyclical or developmental stages rather than chronological periods.

at particular junctures

Highlights specific points in time where certain conditions were met.

some years featured

Focuses more on the characteristics of specific years, rather than recurring patterns.

during specific intervals

Stresses measured or defined durations, rather than natural or recurring periods.

certain stretches involved

Highlights continuous periods or runs of time marked by particular events.

FAQs

What does "there were seasons when" mean?

The phrase "there were seasons when" is used to describe recurring periods or times in the past that were characterized by specific events, conditions or experiences. It suggests a cyclical pattern or a duration during which something happened repeatedly.

How can I use "there were seasons when" in a sentence?

You can use "there were seasons when" to introduce a description of a recurring situation in the past. For example, "There were seasons when the river flooded, affecting the nearby farms."

What can I say instead of "there were seasons when"?

You can use alternatives like "there were times when", "there were periods when", or "there were occasions when" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "there was a season when" instead of "there were seasons when"?

The phrase "there was a season when" is grammatically correct, but it implies a single specific season rather than multiple recurring seasons. If you are referring to multiple periods, "there were seasons when" is more appropriate. For instance, compare "There was a season when the team excelled" (referring to one particular season) versus "There were seasons when the team struggled" (referring to multiple seasons).