they were hailed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they were hailed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone is greeted or acknowledged with enthusiasm or respect, often in a public context. Example: "After their remarkable performance, they were hailed as heroes by the crowd."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

THEY were hailed as heirs to those who fought Napoleon's troops with knives and stones in Madrid's streets in 1808 or who brought down Spain's monarchy in the 1930s.

The Economist

They were hailed as three-dimensional Magrittes.

The Economist

They were hailed as "housewife superstars".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

For 20 years they were hailed as a wonder drug.

The Guardian

When they returned, in 1972, they were hailed as anti-establishment heroes.

The New Yorker

Kasabian were two-time winners at the Q Awards where they were hailed as the "best act in the world".

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

Even as they were hailing the independence of the two enclaves, Russian officials were trying to explain why Chechnya did not deserve the same right.

The New York Times

They are hailed as the new poster children for austerity.

The Guardian

Because whether or not they are hailed like Super Bowl champions, some celebration is in order.

The New York Times

At first, they are hailed as proof of the brilliance of the bankers who devised them.

The Economist

In the town of Happy, they are hailed as miracle workers who can pump a little life into the Little Miss Squeezed Pageant.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "they were hailed" to convey strong public approval or acknowledgment. Ensure the context clearly indicates who is doing the hailing and why.

Common error

Avoid using "they were hailed" when you intend to describe an action they actively performed themselves. This phrase indicates they are the recipients of the hailing, not the initiators. Use active voice constructions instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they were hailed" functions as a passive construction, indicating that the subject (they) received strong positive recognition or acclaim. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, illustrating how entities are celebrated or acknowledged for their accomplishments or qualities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Encyclopedias

8%

Science

6%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "they were hailed" is a commonly used passive construction to express that a group or individuals received significant public acclaim. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across diverse sources. The phrase commonly appears in News & Media, Encyclopedia, and Science contexts. While generally neutral in register, leaning towards formal, be mindful to use alternatives like "they were praised" or "they were celebrated" depending on context. Ensure it aligns with conveying others doing the hailing instead of those being hailed performing the action.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they received acclaim

Emphasizes formal recognition and praise, often in artistic or professional contexts.

they were celebrated

Focuses on the celebratory aspect of the recognition, implying public festivities or events.

they were praised

A more general term for expressing approval or admiration.

they were lauded

Implies enthusiastic and public praise, often used in formal settings.

they were applauded

Specifically refers to the act of clapping as a sign of approval.

they were honored

Suggests a formal recognition of merit or achievement.

they were admired

Focuses on the feeling of respect and approval from others.

they were welcomed

Highlights the positive reception and acceptance of a person or idea.

they were recognised

Highlights formal recognition or acknowledgment.

they were lionized

Implies treating someone as a celebrity or idol.

FAQs

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

Use "they were hailed" to describe a situation where a group or individuals received enthusiastic praise or recognition. For example, "After winning the championship, "they were hailed" as national heroes".

What are some alternatives to "they were hailed"?

You can use alternatives like "they were praised", "they were celebrated", or "they received acclaim" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "they were hailed" in formal writing?

Yes, "they were hailed" is appropriate for formal writing. However, consider the specific context and audience. In some cases, a more formal alternative like "they were lauded" might be more suitable.

What is the difference between "they were hailed" and "they hailed"?

"They were hailed" is in the passive voice, meaning they received praise from others. "They hailed" is in the active voice, meaning they gave praise to someone or something else. The choice depends on who is performing the action of hailing.