things were satisfactory

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "things were satisfactory" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or condition that met expectations or requirements in the past. Example: "After reviewing the project outcomes, I can confidently say that things were satisfactory overall."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

She said she would be happy with a cup of tea and a cake for her birthday and, when asked if there was anything special she would like, she added: "No, I do not think so, everybody is friendly and things are satisfactory".

Independent

"The results were satisfactory".

The New York Times

"His conditions were satisfactory," the spokesman said.

The Guardian

"He's asking questions and saying: 'Things aren't satisfactory.' But will we see concrete proposals on the table and will they be achievable?" Created in 1999, the G-20 gained in stature during the recent financial crisis as the main forum for policy coordination and managing the global economy.

The New York Times

In Galle, while the officials say that everything is on track, the displaced Tsunami victims say that things are far from satisfactory.

BBC

The most generous thing that can be said about this type of display is that its legibility is satisfactory.

The New York Times - Tech

When is satisfactory not satisfactory?

The Guardian

The haircut is satisfactory.

The Guardian - Books

Our relationship is satisfactory".

The New York Times

"That would be satisfactory.

The New Yorker

The score is satisfactory.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "things were satisfactory", ensure the context clearly defines what "things" refers to. For example, specify "the project's results were satisfactory".

Common error

Avoid vague statements like "things were satisfactory" without specifying what aspects were satisfactory. Add specifics to increase clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "things were satisfactory" functions as a statement expressing a past condition or situation met a certain acceptable standard. Ludwig AI confirms it is correct and usable. It commonly acts as a predicate adjective, describing the state of "things".

Expression frequency: Missing

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "things were satisfactory" is a grammatically sound way to express that a past state or outcome met a certain acceptable standard. Ludwig AI analysis suggests it's applicable across various contexts, offering a neutral tone suitable for professional, academic, or general communication. While specifics should be added to clarify what "things" refer to, it serves as a concise means of conveying moderate contentment or acceptance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

matters were acceptable

Replaces "things" with "matters" and uses "acceptable" instead of "satisfactory", suggesting a basic level of approval.

the situation was adequate

Focuses on the "situation" and describes it as "adequate", indicating it met the minimum requirements.

circumstances were fine

Uses "circumstances" and the adjective "fine" to imply that conditions were good enough.

the arrangement was suitable

Emphasizes that the "arrangement" in place was "suitable", meaning it worked well.

affairs were in order

Indicates that "affairs" were "in order", suggesting everything was well-managed and compliant.

the outcome was acceptable

Focuses on the result, judging it to be acceptable rather than excellent.

the state of affairs was alright

Employs the term "state of affairs" and assesses that it was "alright", implying moderate satisfaction.

the conditions sufficed

Highlights that "conditions" "sufficed", indicating they were enough to meet the needs.

the resolution was adequate

This phrase highlights that the "resolution" was simply "adequate".

the situation was not bad

Uses a double negative to imply the situation was satisfactory, but perhaps not excellent.

FAQs

What does "things were satisfactory" mean?

The phrase "things were satisfactory" indicates that a situation or set of circumstances met expectations or requirements to an acceptable degree in the past. It implies a level of contentment or acceptance without necessarily suggesting excellence.

How can I use "things were satisfactory" in a sentence?

You can use "things were satisfactory" to express that past conditions or outcomes were acceptable. For example, "After the initial challenges, things were satisfactory with the new software implementation."

What can I say instead of "things were satisfactory"?

You can use alternatives like "matters were acceptable", "the situation was adequate", or "circumstances were fine" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "things were satisfactory"?

It is appropriate to use "things were satisfactory" when you want to convey that a situation or outcome was acceptable, even if it wasn't exceptional. It's suitable for professional, academic, or general communication where a moderate level of approval is required.