Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
was applications
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "was applications" is not correct in standard written English.
It may be intended to refer to a past state of applications, but it lacks proper grammatical structure. Example: "The software was applications that improved productivity."
⚠ May contain grammatical issues
News & Media
Alternative expressions(2)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
3 human-written examples
Mr Kogan said one of the potential problems was applications with a higher resolution and screen size than what the Agora could handle.
News & Media
The next step was applications for scholarships and eventually his first steps onto the campus grounds—something he was reminded of last week.
News & Media
The next step was applications for scholarships and eventually first steps onto the campus grounds—something he was reminded of last week.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
55 human-written examples
His great talent was application.
Encyclopedias
The first is applications.
News & Media
There are applications like that.
News & Media
There are applications for you".
News & Media
There had been applications from 323 groups.
News & Media
There are applications in Quantum Theory, too.
Science
Another thing is applications.
News & Media
All games are applications, but not all applications are games!
Wiki
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When referring to multiple applications in the past, use the correct plural form "were applications". If referring to a singular application, use "was an application".
Common error
Avoid using "was" with the plural noun "applications". Always ensure subject-verb agreement: use "were" for plural subjects and "was" for singular subjects.
Source & Trust
86%
Authority and reliability
2.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "was applications" attempts to function as a statement of fact or description. However, the incorrect verb conjugation renders the phrase grammatically unsound. As noted by Ludwig AI, the phrase lacks proper grammatical structure.
Frequent in
News & Media
100%
Science
0%
Formal & Business
0%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
0%
Wiki
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "was applications" is grammatically incorrect and should be avoided in formal writing. The correct phrasing depends on the context; for plural applications, use "were applications", and for a singular application, use "was an application". As highlighted by Ludwig AI, the phrase lacks grammatical structure, leading to potential miscommunication. While examples exist, mostly in the News & Media context, the grammatical error significantly reduces its usability. Remember to always ensure subject-verb agreement for clarity and accuracy.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
the applications were
Reverses the word order to be grammatically correct.
it involved applications
Uses 'it involved' to describe applications as part of a process.
applications included
Replaces 'was' with 'included' to list examples of applications.
this pertained to applications
Uses 'pertained to' to indicate relevance to applications.
it concerned applications
Uses 'concerned' to denote a focus on applications.
applications were related
States that the applications were linked or connected to something.
applications were utilized
Emphasizes the use of applications in a specific context.
applications were employed
Similar to 'utilized', but with a slightly more formal tone.
applications encompassed
Indicates that applications included a range of elements.
applications consisted of
Specifically states what the applications were made up of.
FAQs
What is the correct way to refer to multiple applications in the past?
The correct phrasing is "were applications". The verb "were" agrees with the plural noun "applications".
When should I use "was" instead of "were" when talking about applications?
Use "was" only when referring to a single application or when using the singular form. For example, "the application "was successful"".
What are some alternatives to "was applications" that are grammatically correct?
Alternatives include "the applications included", "it involved applications", or "applications were utilized" depending on the intended meaning.
How can I avoid making errors when discussing past applications?
Always double-check the subject-verb agreement. If you're talking about multiple applications, use "were". If it's a single application, use "was". For example: The correct form is "The application "was pending"".
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
86%
Authority and reliability
2.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested