we did not commit

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we did not commit" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you are denying involvement in an action or event, often in legal or moral discussions. Example: "In response to the allegations, we did not commit any wrongdoing and stand by our actions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

"While we agree with the NCAA that we did not commit a violation, that does not diminish our commitment to ensure the health, safety and wellness of our student athletes.

Huffington Post

We did not commit seppuku.

The Guardian - Books

"We did not commit fraud," UnitedHealth said in a statement.

The New York Times

"We did not commit anything we're accused of, and this is very sad".

The New York Times - Sports

We did not commit the terrorist acts perpetrated against our people.

The Guardian

"We did not commit any fraud whatsoever," he wrote in an e-mail to an F.T.C. lawyer in 2011.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

"Our release showed that we didn't commit any crime.

The Guardian

Nor could we if someone were blaming us for a stabbing we didn't commit.

The Washington Post

In South Africa we were criminal, beastly, vile and disgusting, but we didn't commit genocide".

The Guardian

Harris, 27, said it was strange to be forgiven "for a crime we didn't commit".

The Guardian

She added: "It's strange that we are being forgiven for a crime we didn't commit, and I keep thinking about my Russian friends.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we did not commit", ensure that the context clearly identifies what specific action or event is being denied. This avoids ambiguity and strengthens the denial.

Common error

Avoid using "we did not commit" as a blanket statement without specifying the act. This can weaken the denial and leave room for misinterpretation. Always clarify the specific action you are disclaiming.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we did not commit" functions as a declarative statement of denial. It serves to negate an action, asserting that the speakers or the group they represent did not perform the act in question. This is evident in the Ludwig examples where different entities deny accusations of fraud, crimes, or specific harmful actions.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

83%

Science

8%

Academia

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we did not commit" is a phrase used to directly deny involvement in a specific action, primarily found in news and media sources. As Ludwig AI specifies, the phrase is grammatically correct and serves to refute accusations or distance oneself from undesirable events. When using this phrase, it's crucial to specify the action being denied to avoid ambiguity. While alternatives like "we deny involvement" or "we are not responsible" exist, the choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality. Therefore, using "we did not commit" with clarity and precision is essential for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we deny involvement

Specifies a denial of any participation or implication in an event.

we refute the charges

Denies the charges made, often in a formal or legal context.

we reject the accusation

Directly refuses to accept the charge or claim made against them.

we were not involved

A more general statement of non-participation.

we dispute the allegation

Expresses disagreement with a specific assertion or claim.

we are innocent of

Formally declares innocence regarding a specific accusation.

we are not responsible

Replaces the direct denial of "commit" with an assertion of non-responsibility.

we had no part in it

Emphasizes the lack of participation or contribution to something.

we are not to blame

Indicates that responsibility or fault does not lie with the speaker.

we bear no guilt

Shifts the focus to guilt rather than the act itself, implying innocence.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "we did not commit" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives like "we deny involvement", "we refute the charges", or "we reject the accusation". These options provide a more professional and serious tone, particularly useful in legal or official contexts.

What is a less direct way to say "we did not commit"?

You could use phrases like "we had no part in it" or "we were not involved". These options imply a lack of participation without directly denying the action.

Is there a difference between saying "we did not commit" and "we are not responsible"?

While similar, "we did not commit" directly denies the action itself, whereas "we are not responsible" focuses on the absence of accountability or blame. The best choice depends on whether you're denying the action or the blame associated with it.

When is it appropriate to use "we did not commit"?

Use "we did not commit" when you want to firmly and directly deny involvement in a specific action, especially if accusations have been made. Ensure that the context clarifies exactly what action is being denied to avoid ambiguity.