they were receptive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they were receptive" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a person's willingness to accept or consider new ideas, suggestions, or feedback. Example: "During the meeting, they were receptive to the proposed changes in the project plan."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

"They were receptive.

The New Yorker

"We're pleased they were receptive to us," she said.

The New York Times

"They didn't say they were receptive to any one of the six," Daly said.

The New York Times - Sports

The chancellor said he has had good discussions with the Germans and they were receptive to UK proposals.

The Guardian

While they were receptive to the ideas, the entire room agreed that I needed to call it something — anything!

The New York Times

City officials said they were receptive to drivers' suggestions, but Ms. Mode said the industry should also work to protect itself.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

They're receptive.

The New Yorker

Democratic leaders, who control both houses, say they are receptive.

The New York Times

"We have greens that are very fair sized and they're receptive.

The Guardian - Sport

Sadly for some, the public have shown that they're receptive to it.

The Guardian - Opinion

They are receptive and fertile for just 24 to 72 hours.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the subtle differences in meaning between "they were receptive" and similar phrases like "they were open-minded" or "they were amenable" to choose the most appropriate term.

Common error

Avoid assuming that being receptive implies full agreement or action. "They were receptive" simply means they were willing to consider something, not necessarily that they will implement it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they were receptive" functions as a descriptive statement, indicating that a group or individuals showed openness and willingness to consider new ideas, suggestions, or feedback. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

24%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "they were receptive" is a common and grammatically correct way to express that a group or individuals showed openness and willingness to consider new ideas, suggestions, or feedback. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and wide applicability. The phrase is versatile and appears frequently in News & Media and Science contexts. While "they were open minded" and "they were amenable" offer similar meanings, "they were receptive" specifically implies a positive response to something presented. Remember to clearly indicate what "they" were receptive to for maximum clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they were open-minded

Highlights a general willingness to consider different perspectives, not necessarily a response to a specific proposal.

they were amenable

Emphasizes a willingness to agree or comply, suggesting a cooperative attitude.

they were responsive

Focuses on their quick and positive reaction, showing attention and engagement.

they were accepting

Suggests a willingness to embrace or approve something, implying a level of endorsement.

they were understanding

Indicates comprehension and empathy, showing a grasp of the situation or ideas presented.

they were perceptive

Implies a keen ability to discern and appreciate subtle details or nuances.

they were all ears

An idiom emphasizing attentiveness and a strong desire to listen.

they showed interest

General expression of curiosity and attention, less specific than 'receptive'.

they took it well

Focuses on a positive emotional reaction, particularly to potentially negative news or feedback.

they were in agreement

Indicates a consensus or shared understanding, suggesting a mutual acceptance of the idea.

FAQs

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

You can use "they were receptive" to indicate that a person or group was willing to consider new ideas or suggestions. For example, "During the meeting, they were receptive to our proposal."

What does "they were receptive" mean?

The phrase "they were receptive" means that a person or group was open and willing to consider new ideas, suggestions, or feedback. It indicates a positive and welcoming attitude.

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

You can use alternatives like "they were open minded", "they were amenable", or "they were responsive" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "they was receptive"?

No, it is not correct. The correct phrase is "they were receptive". "They" is a plural pronoun and requires the plural form of the verb "to be", which is "were".