we heard

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we heard" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to information or news that has been received or communicated by someone. Example: "We heard that the meeting has been rescheduled for next week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We heard him sing".

Independent

We heard gunfire.

The New York Times

Suddenly, we heard screaming.

Independent

"We heard the explosion.

The New York Times

We heard three shots.

The New York Times

"We heard it all".

The New York Times - Sports

"We heard the gunshots.

The New York Times

"We heard it".

The New York Times - Sports

Later, we heard shots.

The New York Times

We heard you.

The New York Times

"We heard gunshots everywhere".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we heard" when you want to emphasize the act of listening and receiving information, especially sensory input like sounds or direct speech. For written communication, consider alternatives like "we were informed" for a more formal tone.

Common error

While "we heard" is acceptable in many situations, avoid overusing it in formal writing. Opt for more precise and professional alternatives such as "we learned" or "we were notified" to maintain a higher level of formality.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we heard" primarily functions as a verb phrase indicating the reception of auditory information. It is used to convey that the subject (we) received some form of sound or information through listening. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable form in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Formal & Business

22%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we heard" is a grammatically correct and very common expression used to convey the reception of auditory information. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts. While suitable for neutral and informal settings, formal contexts might benefit from alternatives like "we were informed". Predominantly found in news and media, this phrase serves to introduce information, report experiences, or provide evidence. It's crucial to consider the context and desired level of formality when choosing between "we heard" and its alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we were told

Highlights the act of being informed by someone else.

we were informed

Replaces the direct auditory reception with a more formal acknowledgement of information received.

we learned

Indicates the acquisition of knowledge, not necessarily through direct hearing.

we became aware

Highlights a shift from unawareness to awareness, broader than just hearing.

we received word

Implies a formal or official communication.

it came to our attention

Formal way of saying something was brought to their attention, can be written or heard.

we overheard

Suggests accidental or unintended listening.

we picked up

Means to receive a signal or sound, also used metaphorically for information.

we caught wind of

Indicates that information was received informally, like a rumor.

we gathered

Suggests collecting information from multiple sources rather than a single instance of hearing.

FAQs

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

"We heard" is used to express that you received information or sound. For example, "We heard the news about the merger" or "We heard a strange noise outside".

What can I say instead of "we heard"?

You can use alternatives like "we were informed", "we learned", or "we were told" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "we heard" in writing?

It's appropriate in most informal and neutral contexts. For formal writing, consider alternatives like "we were informed" for added professionalism.

What's the difference between "we heard" and "we listened"?

"We heard" implies simply receiving sound, while "we listened" suggests intentional attention and focus on the sound. For example, "We heard the music" versus "We listened to the speaker's presentation".