this was wrong

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this was wrong" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express that something was incorrect or inappropriate in a past situation. Example: "After reviewing the decision we made last week, I realized that this was wrong and we need to reconsider our approach."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

This was wrong.

The New York Times

I knew this was wrong".

The New York Times

He knew that this was wrong.

The New York Times - Magazine

The D.C.C.C. said, "This was wrong.

The New York Times

Hubble showed that this was wrong.

Independent

"This was wrong … Jesus broadens the horizon".

The New Yorker

This was wrong on two counts.

The Guardian - Film

But I felt this was wrong.

The Guardian - Opinion

This was wrong on both counts.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

This is wrong, too.

The New York Times

But this is wrong.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "this was wrong", ensure the context clearly indicates what "this" refers to, avoiding ambiguity. For example, specify the action or decision being criticized in the preceding sentence.

Common error

Avoid using "this was wrong" as a standalone statement without clarifying what specifically is being referred to. Always provide context or explanation to ensure clarity and avoid confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this was wrong" primarily functions as an evaluative statement, expressing disapproval or correction. As Ludwig AI highlights, it indicates that something was incorrect, inappropriate, or morally objectionable. Examples showcase its use in diverse contexts, from rectifying factual inaccuracies to addressing ethical concerns.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "this was wrong" serves as a versatile tool for expressing disagreement, pointing out errors, and advocating for change. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts, particularly in news and academic settings. While versatile, it is important to use "this was wrong" with clear context to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as ""this was incorrect"" or ""this was a mistake"" can provide more specific nuances, as Ludwig showed. Ensure clarity to effectively communicate the reason for disagreement or the nature of the error.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this was incorrect

Replaces "wrong" with a more neutral term, focusing on factual inaccuracy.

this was a mistake

Highlights that the action was unintentional, an error in judgment.

this was an error

Similar to "a mistake", but may imply a more formal or technical context.

this was inappropriate

Indicates that the action was unsuitable or out of place for the situation.

this was unacceptable

Suggests the action was not tolerable or permissible based on certain standards.

this was misguided

Implies that the action was based on faulty judgment or understanding.

this was ill-advised

Similar to "misguided", but suggests receiving poor counsel or advice.

this was not right

A more general expression indicating a lack of moral or ethical alignment.

this was a bad idea

Focuses specifically on the poor planning or foresight of the action.

this was in error

Suggests more formal/technical error

FAQs

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

You can use "this was wrong" to express disagreement or to point out an error in a past action or decision. For example, "After reviewing the data, I realized "this was wrong" and we need to adjust our approach".

What can I say instead of "this was wrong"?

You can use alternatives like "this was incorrect", "this was a mistake", or "this was inappropriate" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "this was wrong" or "that was wrong"?

Both "this was wrong" and "that was wrong" are grammatically correct. "This" typically refers to something closer in time or relevance, while "that" refers to something more distant. The best choice depends on the specific context.

What's the difference between "this was wrong" and "it was wrong"?

"This was wrong" usually refers to a specific action or statement that has already been mentioned or is clearly understood. "It was wrong" is more general and might require further clarification to specify what "it" refers to.