this was how

USAGE SUMMARY

"this was how" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to introduce a description or explanation of a situation or event. An example of using this phrase could be: "This was how Jane's dreams of becoming a doctor finally came true. Despite facing numerous obstacles, she persevered and never gave up on her goal."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

This was 30 years ago.

The New York Times

This was the.50-cal.

The New York Times - Magazine

This was 52 stitches".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"This was 36 years ago, you know.

Independent

By 2010 this was 75 square feet.

The Economist

For prime contractors this was 1%.

The Economist

All this was 30 years ago.

The New Yorker

This was 38 years ago.

The Guardian - Sport

In London this was 7.51.

The Guardian

This was 23 years ago.

The New York Times

"This was 12 hours for six minutes".

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure the context is clear and that the subsequent explanation directly relates to the introductory phrase to maintain coherence.

Common error

Avoid using "this was how" when referring to current or future situations. This phrase specifically indicates a past event or state. For present explanations, use "this is how"; for future, consider "this will be how".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this was how" functions as an introductory clause or transitional phrase, signaling that an explanation or a narrative account will follow. As Ludwig AI points out, it sets the stage for describing a situation or series of events that occurred in the past.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "this was how" is grammatically correct and functions as an introductory or transitional phrase used to set the stage for an explanation or narrative account of a past event or situation. Ludwig AI confirms its primary purpose is to introduce and provide context for understanding particular situations. While versatile across various contexts, it should be confined to past events. Since there are no explicit examples found, this phrase presents a neutral tone. Alternatives exist for those seeking varied expressions, but "this was how" is clear and serves its purpose well.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this is how it happened

Emphasizes the sequence of events leading to a particular outcome.

this is the way it was

Implies a reflection on past conditions or circumstances.

here's how it went

Suggests a more informal and narrative style of explanation.

the following describes how

Introduces a formal and structured description of a process or situation.

this explains how

Highlights the explanatory nature of the subsequent information.

this is the process by which

Focuses on the procedural steps involved in achieving a particular result.

the method used was

Directly indicates the approach or technique that was employed.

the manner in which this occurred

Emphasizes the style or method of happening with a higher degree of formality.

that's how it unfolded

Suggests a gradual revelation of events, like a story being told.

here's the story of how

Framing the explanation as a narrative or anecdote.

FAQs

How can I use "this was how" in a sentence?

Use "this was how" to introduce an explanation or narrative about a past event or situation. For example, "This was how the company overcame its initial challenges."

What's the difference between "this was how" and "this is how"?

"This was how" refers to a past event or process, while "this is how" refers to a present or ongoing situation. Use "this is how" when describing something currently happening.

Are there more formal alternatives to "this was how"?

Yes, you can use phrases like "the method used was" or "the process by which this occurred" for a more formal tone. However, "this was how" is generally acceptable in most contexts.

Can I use "this was how" to describe a future event?

No, "this was how" is specifically for past events. To describe how something will happen in the future, you might say "this is how it will be" or "this is how it's going to happen".