we contacted

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we contacted" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you need to express that you or someone else established contact with someone or something. For example, you could say: "We contacted the company to ask about their return policy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

We contacted him last September.

Independent

So we contacted kermit-support.

Columbia University

We contacted the Mexican consulate.

The New York Times

"We contacted every network," Mr. Emanuel said.

The New York Times

"We contacted Ticketmaster about our concerns".

The New York Times

That's why we contacted the Turkish officials".

The New York Times

"So we contacted the military," Abdo said.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

The problem is how do we contact her?

The New York Times

"We finally contacted him.

The New York Times

"We immediately contacted the authorities," he said.

The New York Times

We've contacted Mars to find out.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we contacted", clearly state the purpose of the contact and the expected outcome to provide context for the reader.

Common error

Ensure that the recipient of the communication is clearly identified. Avoid ambiguity by specifying who was contacted (e.g., "We contacted customer support" instead of simply "We contacted someone").

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we contacted" functions as a declarative statement indicating that a connection or communication was initiated by a group. Ludwig provides numerous examples where this phrase is used to report actions taken by an entity, often for investigative or informative purposes. The phrase confirms a specific action: the act of contacting.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we contacted" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to indicate that communication was initiated. According to Ludwig, this phrase is frequently employed in news and media, as well as in scientific contexts, reflecting its utility in reporting actions taken. Ensure clarity by specifying who was contacted and the purpose of the communication. Alternatives like "we reached out to" offer stylistic variations, with "we contacted" maintaining a slightly more formal tone. Remember to avoid vague language and clearly identify the recipient of the communication. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and appropriate for various writing needs.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we reached out to

This alternative implies an attempt to establish communication, similar to "we contacted", but with a slightly more informal tone.

we got in touch with

This phrase suggests establishing communication, emphasizing the successful connection made with the person or entity.

we communicated with

This option focuses on the act of communication itself, highlighting the exchange of information.

we were in contact with

Indicates an ongoing communication or a series of exchanges, implying a sustained connection.

we spoke with

This alternative specifically refers to verbal communication, either in person or via phone.

we corresponded with

Implies communication via letters or email, emphasizing the written aspect of the interaction.

we conferred with

Suggests a formal consultation or discussion, highlighting the purpose of the communication.

we consulted with

Similar to "we conferred with", emphasizing seeking advice or guidance through communication.

we had discussions with

This emphasizes the conversational nature of the contact, implying a back-and-forth exchange.

we made contact with

Highlights the initial action of establishing a connection, but lacks the implication of further interaction.

FAQs

How can I use "we contacted" in a sentence?

You can use "we contacted" to indicate that your team or organization initiated communication with someone. For example, "We contacted the supplier to negotiate better pricing" or "We contacted the authorities after discovering the security breach".

What are some alternatives to "we contacted"?

Alternatives include phrases such as "we reached out to", "we got in touch with", or "we communicated with", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it more formal to say "we contacted" or "we reached out to"?

"We contacted" is generally considered more formal than "we reached out to". The latter is often used in more casual or modern business settings, whereas "we contacted" has a slightly more traditional feel.

When is it appropriate to use "we contacted" versus "we informed"?

Use "we contacted" when you initiated communication, regardless of whether the other party responded or not. Use "we informed" when you communicated information to someone, implying that the information was successfully conveyed.