we discussed earlier

USAGE SUMMARY

"we discussed earlier" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when referring to a previous conversation or topic that was talked about earlier. Example: As we discussed earlier, the project deadline is approaching and we need to finalize the details by the end of the day.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

As we discussed earlier, idle time is anathema to managers.

Harvard Business Review

The differences in the example questions reflect the differences of approach that we discussed earlier.

Cornell University

As we discussed earlier in the context of Howard, this is because we are not politicians.

The Guardian

As we discussed earlier, negotiating a commitment should instead be an active, collaborative process.

Harvard Business Review

This led to the distinction we discussed earlier between low-end and new-market footholds.

Harvard Business Review

As we discussed earlier, the Jets roster was thin even before their best players got hurt.

The New York Times

Furthermore, the great increase in return flows from the North Platte Project, which we discussed earlier, are relevant here.

Cornell University

But as we discussed earlier, the vast majority of consumer transactions occur in other channels, such as retail stores.

Harvard Business Review

Resource markets can be separated into the four tiers we discussed earlier—one global and three local.

Harvard Business Review

evaluates to 12 using the same kind of rule we discussed earlier in the term, which involves substituting the actual parameter in place of the formal parameter.

Princeton University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

MR: I think it's brilliant, it's, well, about what we discussed earlier--percentages.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we discussed earlier" to smoothly transition back to a point previously made, ensuring clarity and context for your audience. It avoids redundancy and keeps the focus on the current topic.

Common error

Avoid using "we discussed earlier" too frequently in a single piece of writing. Vary your language by using alternatives such as "as previously mentioned" or "as noted before" to maintain reader engagement and avoid sounding repetitive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we discussed earlier" functions as a transitional phrase, linking the current point to a previous discussion. It signals to the reader or listener that the topic has been previously introduced. As Ludwig shows, this phrase is commonly used across various types of content.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

30%

Academia

22%

Less common in

Formal & Business

12%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we discussed earlier" is a frequently used phrase that serves to connect current information to prior conversations or points. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across various fields. As highlighted by the examples, it appears commonly in News & Media, Science and Academic contexts. When using the phrase, be mindful of potential overuse and consider employing alternatives to enhance variety and clarity. Remember to use "we discussed earlier" to ensure a smooth flow of information and maintain audience engagement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as previously mentioned

Uses a more formal tone and emphasizes that the topic has been brought up at some earlier point.

as noted before

Similar to 'as previously mentioned' but with a slightly less formal tone.

as we touched on earlier

Implies a lighter, less in-depth conversation about the topic.

as mentioned in our previous conversation

More explicit, referencing a specific prior conversation.

to reiterate what was said before

Emphasizes a restatement of previously made points.

as brought up earlier

Highlights that the topic was introduced earlier, by any participant.

returning to a previous point

Focuses on the act of going back to something already said.

going back to what we mentioned

Informal alternative; suits less formal settings.

referring back to our discussion

Similar in meaning, but explicitly mentions a discussion.

remember when we talked about

Asks if the listener recalls the prior discussion, less direct.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "we discussed earlier" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, you could use phrases like "as previously mentioned" or "as indicated previously". These options provide a more professional and polished way to refer back to prior conversations.

What's the difference between "we discussed earlier" and "as we touched on earlier"?

"We discussed earlier" implies a more in-depth conversation occurred, whereas "as we touched on earlier" suggests a brief mention or light discussion of the topic.

Is it acceptable to use "we discussed earlier" in academic writing?

Yes, "we discussed earlier" is acceptable in academic writing, especially when referring to concepts or theories introduced earlier in the paper. However, ensure the reference is clear and relevant to the current point. Alternatives like "as mentioned above" might be preferred in some contexts.

Are there less formal alternatives to "we discussed earlier"?

Yes, for less formal situations, you can use phrases like "as we talked about" or "remember when we talked about". These options are more conversational and suitable for informal settings.