they were elsewhere

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they were elsewhere" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone or something was in a different location or situation at a particular time. Example: "When the meeting started, they were elsewhere, attending another event."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

Those shares were the strongest performers in emerging markets just as they were elsewhere.

The New York Times

At the trial, both offered alibi witnesses to say they were elsewhere.

The Guardian

In Arcata the men lived in the redwoods and the playwright also discovered that they were elsewhere in the region.

The New York Times

Both men maintained that they were elsewhere and that the forensic evidence was contaminated by police mishandling.

The New York Times

And the most interesting thing about the zine is that its authors don't seem to wish that they were elsewhere.

The New Yorker

The Hari tactic merely extends this courtesy to speakers who, for whatever reason, have failed to express themselves with the clarity of which they were elsewhere capable.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

They're elsewhere.

The New Yorker

Instead of enjoying the moment they are elsewhere.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Most gallery owners are women, as they are elsewhere around the world.

The New York Times

Nowadays, though, denim trousers are as ubiquitous here as they are elsewhere.

The New York Times

In the Ozarks, however, temperatures are typically cooler than they are elsewhere in the state.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "they were elsewhere" to indicate someone's alibi or to contrast their location with a specific event or place.

Common error

Avoid using "they were elsewhere" when a more specific location is known and relevant. Providing the actual location enhances clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they were elsewhere" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate location. It typically provides information about where someone or something was, implying absence from a specific place or event. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

12%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "they were elsewhere" is a commonly used phrase to indicate that individuals were in a different location or situation than the one being discussed. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and versatile, appearing in various contexts, particularly in news and media. When writing, be mindful of the specific context and consider whether a more explicit location would enhance clarity. Alternatives such as "they were in another place" or "they were not present" can offer similar meaning with slight variations in emphasis. The phrase is suitable for neutral and formal writing styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they were in another place

Replaces "elsewhere" with a more explicit indication of a different location.

they were not present

Focuses on the absence from a specific location or event.

they were absent

A simpler way of stating their lack of presence.

they were not there

Directly states their non-presence at a specific location.

their whereabouts were different

Emphasizes the difference in location or position.

they occupied a different space

Focuses on the physical space they were in.

they existed in another location

More formal way to indicate their presence in a different place.

they had moved to a different area

Suggests a change in location or region.

they found themselves in another locale

More descriptive and emphasizes a change of scenery.

their focus was directed elsewhere

Shifts the meaning to a different focus of attention rather than physical location.

FAQs

What does "they were elsewhere" mean?

The phrase "they were elsewhere" indicates that the individuals in question were in a different location or situation than the one being discussed. It often implies that they were not present at a particular event or place.

How can I use "they were elsewhere" in a sentence?

You can use "they were elsewhere" to provide an alibi, explain why someone didn't participate in an activity, or contrast their location with another event. For example, "The suspects claimed "they were elsewhere" when the crime occurred".

What's the difference between "they were elsewhere" and "they were not there"?

"They were not there" directly states their absence, while "they were elsewhere" implies they were in another location, possibly with a specific purpose or reason. "They were not there" is more general, while "they were elsewhere" adds a subtle layer of context about their location.

What are some alternatives to saying "they were elsewhere"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "they were in another place", "they were not present", or "they were absent".