we operated

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we operated" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the actions taken by a group or organization, typically in a past context. Example: "During the last quarter, we operated under a new set of guidelines to improve efficiency."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We operated the patients strictly according to the operation technique described by Rachbauer and Krismer (2008).

Acta Orthopaedica

We operated as a unit".

The Guardian - Music

"We operated the same way.

The New York Times - Sports

And that's the way we operated.

The New York Times

"I thought we operated well," Collins said.

The New York Times - Sports

We operated well and I really liked our tempo".

The New York Times - Sports

We operated on the buddy system, the team.

The New York Times - Magazine

Before the current system, we operated in stealth".

The New York Times

Then, I started looking at some detail in the way we operated in Malta.

The Guardian

"We operated on a shoestring," he said, "but eventually got the laces tied up".

The New York Times

But when we operated on the female pelvis, we just cut everything out.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we operated" when you want to describe the way a system or team functioned in the past. This is particularly helpful when describing procedures, projects, or business practices that have since changed.

Common error

Avoid using "we operated" when a more direct and active voice would strengthen your writing. Instead of "the system was operated by us", opt for "we operated the system" for a more impactful statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we operated" functions as a verb phrase indicating a past action performed by a group. It describes how a system, business, or team functioned. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

34%

Formal & Business

29%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "we operated" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe actions performed by a group in the past. As indicated by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and widely used across diverse contexts like news, science, and business. When using "we operated", ensure clarity by specifying who "we" refers to, and consider stronger active voice alternatives to avoid passive constructions. By using "we operated" effectively, writers can clearly and concisely convey information about past processes and methods.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we conducted

Replaces "operated" with a more formal term, emphasizing the execution of a task or activity.

we performed

Similar to "conducted", but can also imply a specific action or procedure was completed.

we executed

Highlights the successful completion of a plan or operation, often suggesting efficiency.

we managed

Focuses on the oversight and control aspects of the activity.

we ran

Implies ongoing management and execution of a process or system.

we utilized

Emphasizes the use of resources or tools to achieve a specific outcome.

we employed

Similar to "utilized", but may also refer to using specific methods or strategies.

we functioned

Highlights the operational aspects and how something or someone performed.

we controlled

Signifies the power or management aspect of the action.

we oversaw

Focuses on the supervisory role in the activity, indicating responsibility for its success.

FAQs

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

"We operated" can be used to describe past actions, such as "We operated the machinery according to the manual" or "We operated under strict guidelines during the project."

What are some alternatives to saying "we operated"?

Alternatives include phrases like "we conducted", "we performed", or "we managed", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use "we operated" or "we operate"?

Use "we operated" for past actions and "we operate" for present or ongoing actions. For example, "Last year, we operated at a loss" versus "Currently, we operate at full capacity."

What does "we operated" imply in a business context?

In a business context, "we operated" typically implies the execution of business processes, strategies, or systems. It can refer to how a company functioned in the past, such as "We operated with a lean budget last quarter".