there were something

USAGE SUMMARY

'there were something' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to an unspecified or unknown quantity of something. For example, "When I opened the box, there were something sparkling inside."

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Would that there were something more offensive here.

The New York Times - Books

"I think there were something like 2,800".

The New York Times

If only there were something enthralling for him to see.

The New York Times - Arts

It was as if there were something illicit about contracting Alzheimer's.

The New York Times

There were something like 900 pedestrian deaths at the turn of the century.

The New York Times

("What if there were something, other than ranger or thief, paladin or mage?" a teammate asks).

The New York Times - Books

"It would be rather stupid if there were something in a few billion digits.

The New Yorker

If there were something akin to Lehman Brothers' collapse, all share prices would collapse too.

Independent

He mentioned there were "something about the same amount" of people downstairs – in the overflow area.

The Guardian

If there were something going on, it would have been easy for us to fold.

The New York Times - Sports

"They talk about the economy as if there were something at stake," she said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "there were something", ensure the context implies a plural or collective sense, even if the specific items are unknown. For example, "There were something strange happening that night" implies multiple unusual occurrences.

Common error

Avoid using "there were something" when referring to a singular noun. It should be "there was something". For example, it's correct to say "There was something wrong with the car" not "There were something wrong with the car".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "there were something" functions as an existential clause, introducing the existence of an unspecified number of items or a situation. It's often used when the speaker lacks specific knowledge or wishes to remain vague. As Ludwig AI states, it's used to refer to an unspecified or unknown quantity of something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "there were something" is an acceptable, though sometimes debated, way to introduce an unspecified quantity or situation. While Ludwig AI indicates that it is used to refer to an unknown quantity, it's important to ensure context supports either a plural or collective understanding. The phrase is very common, especially in news and media, although it is generally considered neutral in formality. When writing, remember to check subject-verb agreement and consider alternative phrases like "there seemed to be something" for greater precision. Keep in mind that in formal settings, more precise language might be preferred.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

there was something

Singular form instead of plural, used when referring to one unspecified item or concept.

there seemed to be something

Adds a nuance of uncertainty or observation to the existence of something.

there appeared to be something

Similar to "seemed", emphasizing the appearance rather than certainty.

there had to be something

Expresses a belief or necessity regarding the existence of something.

there must be something

Indicates a logical conclusion or assumption about the existence of something.

if there was something

Introduces a conditional scenario regarding the existence of something.

as if there were something

Suggests a comparison or perceived feeling about the existence of something.

it was like there was something

Similar to "as if", expressing a subjective impression.

there is possibly something

Indicates that there may be something, and the existence of it is not confirmed.

there might be something

Suggests a possibility of something existing.

FAQs

How can I correct the grammar in the phrase "there were something"?

The phrase "there were something" can sometimes be considered grammatically incorrect. If you're referring to a singular item, it's better to say "there was something". If you intend to convey a plural sense, consider rephrasing.

What does "there were something" imply?

The phrase "there were something" generally implies the existence of unspecified items or a situation that is not clearly defined. It often suggests uncertainty or a lack of specific knowledge about what exists.

What are some alternatives to saying "there were something"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "there seemed to be something", "there appeared to be something", or "there might have been something". These alternatives can offer similar meanings with slight variations in nuance. See "there seemed to be something" for similar results.

Is "there were something" formal or informal?

While commonly used, "there were something" leans toward informal usage. In formal writing, prioritize precise language. Consider rephrasing to make your meaning clearer, depending on whether you intend a singular or plural sense.