they were identified

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they were identified" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the process of recognizing or naming individuals or items in a specific context. Example: "After thorough investigation, they were identified as the main suspects in the case."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

They were identified as Sgts.

The New York Times

They were identified only as a "U.N.

The New York Times

Like celebrity actors, they were identified with certain roles.

The New York Times - Arts

They were identified as Hideki Hashimoto, Nobuhiro Kurosaki and Hiroshi Tanaka.

The Guardian

They were identified as Dashorn Washington and Jamel Robinson, both of East New York.

The New York Times

They were identified by relatives, said the Westchester County medical examiner, Millard J. Hyland.

The New York Times

They were identified in testimony as having discussed increasing buyers' fees in 1992.

The New York Times

They were identified as Michael Edwards, 24; Vanessa Quinones, 20; and Clem Clemmons, 40.

The New York Times

They were identified as Sarah Blaustein, 53, and Esther Alvan, 20.

The New York Times

They were identified as Jeffrey Edmonson, 23, Brian Mahanna, 21, and Micah Lasher, 22.

The New York Times

In addition to nationality, they were identified by "race or people" and by complexion.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In reports or formal documents, follow "they were identified" with specific details about the method of identification, such as "through DNA analysis" or "by eyewitness testimony".

Common error

Avoid overuse of passive constructions like "they were identified" if it obscures who performed the identification. Whenever possible, rephrase to use active voice for clearer and more direct writing, such as "Investigators identified them" instead of "They were identified by investigators".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of the phrase "they were identified" is as a passive voice construction. It indicates that the subject (they) underwent the action of being identified, typically by an unstated or subsequently mentioned agent. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Science

47%

Wiki

1%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "they were identified" is a grammatically correct and widely used passive construction that serves to report the recognition or naming of a group or individuals. As supported by Ludwig AI, its frequency is very common across diverse contexts like News & Media and Science, reflecting its utility in objective reporting. While its register is generally neutral, writers should be mindful of clarity and directness, considering active voice alternatives when appropriate. Avoiding overuse and ensuring clear context will enhance the effectiveness of this phrase in written communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they were recognized

Focuses on the act of acknowledging or knowing something or someone previously encountered.

their identities were established

Emphasizes the process of confirming who they are, often through formal means.

they were singled out

Highlights being chosen from a group, implying a specific reason for selection.

they were determined

Indicates a conclusion or decision was reached about their identity or role.

they were pinpointed

Suggests a precise and accurate identification, often after investigation.

they were ascertained

Implies a formal or official process of finding something out for certain.

they were classified

Focuses on categorization or grouping based on shared characteristics.

they were designated

Highlights the act of officially assigning a role or identity.

they were discerned

Emphasizes the ability to perceive or recognize something not immediately obvious.

they were tagged

Suggests a label or identifier was attached, either literally or figuratively.

FAQs

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

Use "they were identified" to indicate that a group or individuals have been recognized or named. For example, "They were identified as the primary suspects in the investigation".

What are some alternatives to "they were identified"?

You can use alternatives like "they were recognized", "their identities were established", or "they were singled out" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use active or passive voice with "they were identified"?

While "they were identified" (passive voice) is grammatically correct, using the active voice (e.g., "investigators identified them") can often make your writing clearer and more direct. Choose the voice that best suits the context and your intended emphasis.

What does "they were identified" mean?

The phrase "they were identified" means that a group of people or items have been recognized, named, or classified after a process of discovery or investigation.