we heard from

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we heard from" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to receiving communication or information from someone, such as a person or organization. Example: "We heard from the client regarding the project updates, and they are pleased with the progress."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The most we heard from the Carson Palmer situation was people asking questions about it.

The New York Times

We heard from 4,200 teachers.

The New York Times

But first we heard from the Speaker.

The Guardian

Yesterday we heard from a brass band.

The Guardian

"We heard from generals and retired generals".

The New York Times

Haven't we heard from Eric Schmidt before?

The Guardian - Opinion

At the Demjanjuk trial we heard from the victims' children.

The New York Times

"It was the last we heard from you".

The New Yorker

That was what we heard from Pastor McConnell.

The Economist

"We heard from people all the time," Marcus said.

The New Yorker

That was the last we heard from him.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you want to emphasize the information gained, consider alternatives such as "we learned" or "we understood" instead of "we heard from".

Common error

Avoid confusing "we heard from" with "we heard of". "We heard from" implies direct communication, whereas "we heard of" simply means you are aware of something or someone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we heard from" functions as a reporting verb phrase, indicating that the subject received communication or information from a specific source. Ludwig provides examples in which "we heard from" introduces the source of information, such as people, organizations, or specific roles.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Formal & Business

12%

Science

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we heard from" is a versatile and grammatically sound construction used to indicate receipt of communication from a specified source. As highlighted by Ludwig, it functions as a reporting verb phrase that connects the subject to the origin of information. Its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts, with primary usage in news and media. The tool also confirms its common usage, supported by a substantial number of real-world examples and the absence of grammatical errors. Therefore, writers can confidently employ "we heard from" across both formal and informal writing scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we received a message from

This alternative explicitly mentions the receipt of a message.

we received word from

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the receipt of a message or communication.

we were contacted by

This alternative emphasizes the act of someone initiating communication with us.

we were informed by

This alternative is more formal and highlights the act of being told something.

we were notified by

This alternative suggests a formal or official announcement.

we got in touch with

This alternative describes the action of establishing communication with someone

we had communication with

This alternative focuses on the interaction or exchange of information.

we were advised by

This alternative is more formal and suggests receiving guidance or recommendations.

we learned from

This alternative focuses on gaining knowledge or insight.

we took note of

This suggests paying attention to what was said, indicating careful consideration of the information.

FAQs

What does "we heard from" mean?

The phrase "we heard from" indicates that you received communication, such as a message or information, directly from someone or some entity.

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

You can use "we heard from" to report on a communication you received. For example, "We heard from the client regarding the project deadline".

What can I say instead of "we heard from"?

Alternatives include "we received word from", "we were informed by", or "we were contacted by", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "we heard from" in formal writing?

Yes, "we heard from" is appropriate in formal writing, but consider using more formal alternatives like "we were notified by" or "we were advised by" if a more elevated tone is desired.