we commend that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we commend that" is not correct in standard written English.
The correct form would typically be "we commend" followed by a direct object or "that" clause, such as "we commend that you take action." Example: "In light of the recent developments, we commend that you consider our proposal seriously."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

We commend that determination to address the current situation through appropriate democratic institutions".

The New York Times

A fisheries policies officer, Melissa Pritchard, said: "Everyone is doing everything they can and we commend that, but, with fish stocks, it takes years to recover".

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

So, yes, Swift is right to commend that first hearty gastronome who, throwing caution to the wind, slurped down the first oyster, savoring that exhilarating salt taste of the sea as it burst upon the tongue.

Forbes

While we commend initiatives that help older adults adapt to such external constraints, it does not exempt the State from its responsibility to look for ways to abolish mandatory retirement in accordance with the fight against age discrimination in the workplace.

Ageing and Society

Biden commended that measure as a sign that Ukraine will fulfill commitments made in Geneva, including holding elections next month that "are clean and closely monitored so that nobody on the 26th of May can question their legitimacy".

Los Angeles Times

He commended that: Middlesbrough fans had also been praised by Cleveland Police for their behaviour in previous rounds, particularly in the light of aggravation prior to and during the match at Roma.

Wikipedia

"They are both trying to move forward in difficult circumstances, and we commend them for that," Mr. Crowley said.

The New York Times

We commend you for that," they wrote.

Huffington Post

We commend the work that is making a visible difference in communities across the country by engaging urban populations in restoring their rivers and surrounding neighborhoods, improving access for water recreation and helping create a network of parks and greenspaces connecting downtown cores with suburban and rural areas.

Huffington Post

Therefore we commend to you that -- independent reading is available to you -- that you can read books that you believe are appropriate for you, speak to your particular situation.

Huffington Post

We commend countries in this region that have undertaken assessments to look at the circumstances of children in relation to HIV/AIDS; that are expanding access to pediatric antiretroviral treatment and care; that are pursuing prevention strategies for children and young people at risk; and, that are promoting care and support for orphans and vulnerable children.

Unicef

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Always follow "commend" with a direct object or a prepositional phrase clarifying what is being commended, such as "we commend the effort" or "we commend you for your dedication."

Common error

Avoid using "that" directly after "commend" without a clear connection to the object of commendation. Phrases like "we commend that" often sound incomplete and require restructuring.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we commend that" functions as an introductory segment in a sentence. However, it's grammatically incomplete and typically requires a direct object or a clause to clarify what is being commended. As Ludwig AI highlights, the phrase is not standard in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

30%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "we commend that" appears in various sources, it is considered grammatically incorrect in standard English. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is better restructured to include a direct object or a prepositional phrase, such as "we commend your efforts" or "we commend you for your dedication". Predominantly found in news, scientific, and formal business contexts, it aims to express approval or praise, but clarity and grammatical accuracy are crucial for effective communication. It's best to use alternative phrases to convey the intended meaning more precisely and correctly.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we commend your actions

Replaces "that" with a direct object, specifying what is being commended.

we commend the effort

Substitutes "that" with a noun phrase, making the sentence grammatically sound.

we commend you for that

Adds 'you' and 'for', clarifying who is being commended and the reason.

we commend this decision

Replaces "that" with a noun, specifying which decision is being commended.

we express our appreciation for that

Replaces "commend" with "express our appreciation", changing the tone to gratitude.

we acknowledge that

Shifts the focus from praise to recognition of a fact or situation.

we recommend that

Changes the meaning to a suggestion or endorsement rather than praise.

we approve of that

Simplifies the expression to a statement of approval.

we support that

Indicates backing or advocacy for something.

we applaud that

Replaces "commend" with "applaud", adding a sense of enthusiastic approval.

FAQs

How can I properly use "we commend" in a sentence?

Follow "we commend" with a noun phrase that specifies what is being praised. For example, "We commend the team's efforts" or "We commend your dedication to the project".

What's a more formal way to express "we commend that"?

Instead of "we commend that", consider using "we express our appreciation for "we express our appreciation for"" followed by a clear statement of what you are appreciating.

Is "we commend that" grammatically correct?

While occasionally used, "we commend that" is generally considered grammatically awkward. It's better to rephrase the sentence for clarity. Ludwig AI explains that the form is incorrect. For example, use "we commend you for that" or "we commend the effort".

What can I say instead of "we commend that"?

Depending on the context, you can replace "we commend that" with alternatives such as "we acknowledge that", "we recommend that", or "we approve of that".