they described

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they described" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to someone explaining or detailing something in a narrative or report. Example: "In their report, they described the findings of the study in great detail."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

How old were they – 16?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Are they accredited[6]?

WikiHow

They have 18 rebounds.

The New York Times

They are: 1.

The New York Times

They say 26,100 attended.

The New York Times

They lost 20 people.

The New York Times

They arrested 20 people.

The New York Times

Today they count 280.

The New York Times - Travel

They committed 18 turnovers.

The New York Times - Sports

They conceded 50.

Independent

(They had 10, apparently).

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "they described", ensure the context clearly indicates who "they" refers to and what was described. This avoids ambiguity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "they described" if the subject or group referred to by "they" is not immediately apparent to the reader. This can lead to confusion and require the reader to retrace the sentence to understand the meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they described" typically functions as the main verb in a sentence, indicating that a group (denoted by "they") has provided a description of something. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "they described" is a grammatically correct and versatile way to indicate that a group has provided a description. While Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, the tool indicates that its frequency is currently limited (since no examples were found), so make sure that the context makes clear to whom the "they" refers to. Consider alternatives like "they explained" or "they detailed" to add nuance to your writing. Remember clarity is key, so avoid ambiguity when using this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they detailed

This alternative uses a different verb to emphasize the thoroughness of the description.

they explained

This focuses on making something understandable, rather than just providing details.

they recounted

This suggests a narrative or storytelling aspect to the description.

they narrated

Similar to recounted, but emphasizes a more formal storytelling approach.

they portrayed

This implies a more artistic or subjective depiction.

they illustrated

Focuses on providing examples or visuals to support the description.

they specified

Highlights the act of mentioning something in detail

they communicated

This has a broader meaning about expressing an idea.

they conveyed

Implies the transmission of information or an impression.

they presented

This suggests a formal or structured delivery of information.

FAQs

How can I use "they described" in a sentence?

Use "they described" when you want to convey that a group of people has provided an account or details of something. For example, "In their report, they described the events leading up to the incident."

What are some alternatives to "they described"?

You can use alternatives like "they explained", "they detailed", or "they recounted" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to use "they described"?

Yes, "they described" is grammatically correct. It follows standard subject-verb agreement and is widely used in written and spoken English.

What is the difference between "they described" and "they explained"?

"They described" focuses on providing details or an account, while "they explained" focuses on making something understandable. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the provision of information or the clarification of a concept.