we departed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we departed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that a group of people has left a place, typically in the context of travel or a journey. Example: "After a brief delay, we departed from the station at 10 AM sharp."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

We departed, a band of drunks.

The Guardian - Arts

We departed with smiles on our faces.

The New York Times - Food

When we departed, we took only the clothes we wore.

The New York Times

We departed our hotel at 1 a.m. to make the three-hour drive to the airport.

The New York Times

So we got married, and three weeks later we departed for the New World.

The New York Times - Science

Alas, the meal situation leaving us no alternative, we departed Uppigard Natadal later that day.

The New York Times - Travel

And, as we departed: "So when is this going to run?

The New York Times

We departed concerned only that the hotel may have spoiled them for life.

The New York Times

We departed stations before the relevant track had finished, leaving strings and words dangling.

The Guardian - Music

Each time we departed, there was barely a trace of our passing.

The Guardian - Travel

We were so disappointed that we departed without leaving a gratuity.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using synonyms like "we left" or "we set off" in more casual contexts for a more conversational tone.

Common error

Avoid using "we departed" in overly casual or informal situations. It can sound stilted or pretentious when simpler alternatives like "we left" or "we headed out" would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we departed" functions as a declarative statement indicating the act of leaving a place or starting a journey. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a grammatically correct phrase. Examples from Ludwig show its use in news articles, travel blogs, and even scientific publications.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we departed" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase, as Ludwig AI confirms, that denotes leaving a location or starting a journey. Its usage is prevalent in journalistic and formal business writing, as well as academic and scientific contexts. While being a reliable and accurate expression, it can occasionally come across as too formal in everyday discourse, where options such as "we left" may be more appropriate. When aiming for a more elevated or descriptive tone, "we departed" remains an excellent choice, particularly when initiating narratives or documenting travels.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we left

Direct synonym indicating the act of leaving a place. It's a simpler and more common alternative.

we set off

Implies the beginning of a journey or trip. Adds a sense of purpose and direction.

we took off

Suggests a quick or sudden departure, often used in the context of travel by air.

we started out

Emphasizes the commencement of a journey or activity. Focuses on the initial phase.

we withdrew

Indicates a retreat or removal from a place or situation. Can imply a strategic or cautious departure.

we exited

A more formal way of saying "we left". Suggests a structured or official departure.

we moved on

Implies a transition to a new phase or location, often after completing or abandoning something.

we embarked

Suggests the beginning of a significant or adventurous journey. More formal and literary.

we adjourned

Refers to the termination of a meeting or session. Specifically used in formal settings.

we cleared out

Suggests a thorough and complete departure, leaving a place empty or clear.

FAQs

What does "we departed" mean?

The phrase "we departed" means that a group of people left a place or began a journey. It's a slightly more formal way of saying "we left".

What can I say instead of "we departed"?

You can use alternatives like "we left", "we set off", or "we headed out" depending on the context and desired formality.

Is "we departed" formal or informal?

"We departed" is generally considered more formal than alternatives like "we left". It's suitable for official reports, travel writing, or historical accounts.

How to use "we departed" in a sentence?

Here's an example: "After a brief delay, we departed from the hotel." You can also say, "We departed early the next morning for our honeymoon."