they were performed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they were performed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that certain actions or tasks were carried out by someone or something in the past. Example: "The experiments were conducted under strict conditions, and they were performed to ensure accurate results."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In ancient Greece, they were performed at funerals or as demonstrations of regional pride.

The New Yorker

To make the point that these are essentially the first great piano concertos, they were performed on a modern Steinway.

The New York Times - Arts

They seemed kitschy to later generations, and, as they were performed less often, their steps were forgotten.

The New Yorker

They were performed by our priest, who is married to his partner.

The New York Times - Books

They were performed by the same doctor, with the same sedation.

The New York Times - Health

Meanwhile, its Scottish cousin has pioneered epic cycles of five-minute dramas, transmitted live on the web as they were performed across Scotland.

The Guardian

It says that the British state is prepared to forgive historical homosexual acts providing they were performed by a national hero, academic giant or world-changing innovator.

The Guardian - Opinion

"They have the epic quality of the mystery plays -- which Shakespeare must have seen as a boy when they were performed a few miles from Stratford, in Coventry".

The New York Times

The dances that completed the program looked better in the warmer frame of the backstage studio at City Center, where they were performed in June.

The New York Times - Arts

Government inspectors also approved Boeing's testing plans for the batteries and were present when they were performed.

The New York Times

His plays were quickly translated into Russian, Polish, German, and French, and they were performed throughout Europe.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "they were performed", ensure the subject is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify who or what carried out the actions.

Common error

Avoid using "they were performed" without a clear antecedent. Ensure the reader knows what "they" refers to, to maintain clarity and avoid confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they were performed" functions as a passive voice construction, indicating that an action was carried out by an unspecified actor. Ludwig provides numerous examples illustrating its usage across different domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "they were performed" is a versatile passive voice construction widely used to describe actions or events across various domains. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and frequently encountered in formal and neutral contexts, particularly in science and news media. When using this phrase, ensure that the subject is clear to avoid ambiguity. Consider alternatives like "they were executed" or "they were carried out" for stylistic variation. Remember to specify the performer of the actions for clarity when necessary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they were executed

This alternative emphasizes the carrying out of a plan or action, often suggesting precision or formality.

they were carried out

This option is a general substitute, highlighting the completion of a task or procedure.

they were conducted

This phrase is often used for experiments, surveys, or investigations, suggesting a structured process.

they were implemented

This suggests that plans or systems were put into effect or operation.

they were enacted

This term is suitable when referring to laws, rules, or performances being officially put into action.

they were staged

Implies a deliberate arrangement or presentation, commonly used for events or performances.

they were undertaken

Suggests that a task or project was started and pursued, often implying a degree of effort.

they were administered

This is often used in the context of giving or applying something, such as tests or treatments.

they were realized

This alternative indicates that something planned or hoped for came into being or was achieved.

they were fulfilled

This phrase implies the completion of a promise, prophecy, or condition.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "they were performed" to sound more active?

Consider using active voice constructions such as "someone performed them" or specifying the actor, for example, "the researchers performed the experiments."

What is the difference between "they were performed" and "they were executed"?

While both indicate that something was carried out, "they were executed" often implies a higher degree of precision or formality, whereas "they were performed" is a more general term.

Is "they were performed" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "they were performed" is suitable for formal writing, especially in scientific, academic, or professional contexts. However, ensure clarity and avoid overuse by considering alternatives when appropriate.

What are some synonyms for "they were performed" that I can use to add variety to my writing?

You can use alternatives like "they were carried out", "they were conducted", or "they were implemented" depending on the context.