they were acquainted

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they were acquainted" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that two or more people have met or know each other, typically in a formal or polite context. Example: "Although they were acquainted from previous meetings, they had never had a chance to talk one-on-one."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

They were acquainted with Bourdain and knew him as the embodiment of wit, smarts and cool.

The New York Times

They were acquainted with each other while they were at the Yale School of Music.

The New York Times

But they gave only their opinions and consequently did not testify about facts with which they were acquainted.

Britannica

In the first pentathlon, in 1912, the athletes were allowed to use horses with which they were acquainted.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Rivera said they were acquainted with their attackers, whom he described as newcomers to the business.

The New York Times

The study physicians performed one examination each on a patient with a fracture to verify that they were acquainted with the method.

Critical Ultrasound Journal

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

They are acquainted because Mr. Bloomberg is the chairman of the trustees of Johns Hopkins University there.

The New York Times

"From what we are told, they are acquainted," Chief Heider said.

The New York Times

Others will get it after a while, especially if they are acquainted with Mr. Kelly's early painting and sculpture.

The New York Times - Arts

Mr. Ivanov and Mr. Putin have said they are acquainted from work in the Leningrad office of the K.G.B. in the 1980s.

The New York Times

When they are acquainted with the judge's proclivities, viewers can better understand why certain pieces in the competition made the cut.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "they were acquainted", consider the context to ensure it accurately reflects the level of familiarity between the individuals. It's more formal than "they knew each other".

Common error

Avoid using "they were acquainted" in informal or casual contexts. It can sound overly formal or stilted when a simpler phrase like "they knew each other" would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they were acquainted" functions as a statement of familiarity between two or more individuals. Ludwig AI confirms its usage in various contexts. It indicates a level of knowing each other without implying a deep relationship.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

37%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "they were acquainted" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to indicate that people know each other, albeit in a somewhat formal way. As shown by Ludwig, it appears frequently in News & Media and Scientific contexts, suggesting its suitability for neutral to formal registers. When choosing this phrase, consider the context to ensure it accurately reflects the intended level of familiarity. For less formal settings, consider "they knew each other". The analysis concludes that while grammatically correct, it's essential to use this phrase judiciously to avoid sounding overly formal.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they knew each other

Indicates a general awareness and recognition between individuals, implying some level of interaction or shared knowledge. The focus is on mutual knowledge.

they were familiar with each other

Suggests a comfortable understanding or awareness of each other's traits, habits, or backgrounds, implying a closer connection than just acquaintance.

they had met before

Specifies that the individuals had a prior encounter, but does not necessarily imply ongoing familiarity or a deep connection.

they were introduced

Highlights the act of initial introduction, suggesting a starting point of acquaintance but not necessarily a developed relationship.

they had crossed paths

Indicates a brief or incidental encounter, suggesting a casual level of acquaintance without a strong or lasting connection.

they were on speaking terms

Implies a basic level of communication and civility between individuals, but not necessarily a close or friendly relationship.

they had a nodding acquaintance

Suggests a very superficial level of recognition, often limited to a simple greeting or acknowledgment without further interaction.

they were known to each other

Emphasizes the state of being recognized or identified by one another, possibly without direct interaction or personal knowledge.

they had a professional relationship

Highlights the nature of their acquaintance that is tied to a work environment or a shared professional field.

they were conversant

Implies a capacity for exchanging thoughts or opinions with each other, often suggesting shared understanding or expertise.

FAQs

What does "they were acquainted" mean?

The phrase "they were acquainted" means that two or more people have met or know each other, often implying a formal or not particularly close relationship.

When is it appropriate to use "they were acquainted"?

It's appropriate in formal or professional contexts when you want to indicate a level of familiarity without implying a close friendship. It suggests they "knew each other", but perhaps not well.

What are some alternatives to "they were acquainted"?

Alternatives include "they knew each other", "they had met", or "they were familiar with each other". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality you want to convey.

Is "they were acquainted" more formal than "they knew each other"?

Yes, "they were acquainted" is generally considered more formal. "They "knew each other"" is a more common and neutral way to express that two people have met.