we pointed out that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we pointed out that" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
In general, it is used to introduce a statement or fact that has been previously mentioned or discussed. Some possible examples could be: 1. During our presentation, we pointed out that renewable energy sources have a positive impact on the environment. 2. In our report, we pointed out that the company's profits have been steadily declining over the past year. 3. During the meeting, we pointed out that certain safety measures need to be implemented in the workplace. 4. In our discussion, we pointed out that the proposed budget cuts would greatly affect our department. 5. While watching the movie, we pointed out that the plot was very similar to another film we had seen before.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We pointed out that we were riding empty-handed.

The New York Times

We pointed out that we were his customers and that he was offending us.

The Guardian

We pointed out that we condemned both in the strongest terms.

The Guardian - Opinion

We pointed out that membership itself may be innocent, and held that the classification of innocent and guilty together was arbitrary.

Cornell University

"We pointed out that it is not a very efficient use of manpower," said Davi D'Agostino, a director at the GAO.

The Washington Post

We pointed out that we had no real desire to watch Toy Story 2 for the 40th time, however much we rate the animation.

The Guardian - Music

We pointed out that during polyploidy-dysploidy cycles, the dominant tendency is to reduce the chromosome number.

BMC Genomics

We pointed out that eventually he will be unable to breathe and will die unless placed on a breathing machine.

AJOB Empirical Bioethics

We pointed out that this section makes importation an infringement of the "exclusive right to distribute..

Harvard University

We pointed out that the deregulation behind the frenzy came at a price.

The Guardian - Opinion

So we pointed out that he wouldn't be able to see over the dashboard – an objection that left him unmoved.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we pointed out that" to introduce a fact or observation, especially when you want to emphasize its relevance or importance to the current discussion. It's useful for reinforcing a point previously made.

Common error

Avoid starting multiple consecutive sentences with "we pointed out that" as it can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your sentence structure by using synonyms like "we noted", "we observed", or rephrasing to integrate the point more smoothly into the text.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we pointed out that" serves as a discourse marker or reporting clause. It introduces a statement, observation, or argument previously made by the speaker(s). It functions to highlight something important for the listener or reader. This is confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

35%

Academia

22%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we pointed out that" is a grammatically correct and very common phrase used to introduce a previously stated fact or observation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical validity. It is most frequently found in news and media, scientific, and academic contexts, suggesting a neutral to formal register. When writing, be mindful of overuse and vary your sentence structure for clarity. Alternatives such as "we noted that" or "we observed that" can enhance readability. Ludwig examples illustrate the phrase's diverse applications, reinforcing its importance in effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we indicated that

Replaces "pointed out" with a more formal verb, suggesting a clear but possibly less emphatic statement.

we noted that

Similar to "pointed out" but can imply a more passive observation rather than a direct argument.

we observed that

Suggests the statement is based on observation or evidence.

we mentioned that

Implies a less forceful or prominent statement.

we stated that

More formal, suggesting a clear and direct declaration.

we clarified that

Used when correcting a misunderstanding or providing more detail.

we emphasized that

Highlights the importance of the statement.

we stressed that

Similar to emphasized, but might imply a warning or urgency.

we drew attention to the fact that

More verbose, but emphasizes the act of directing focus to something.

we brought up that

Informal, suggesting the introduction of a topic or fact into a conversation.

FAQs

How can I use "we pointed out that" in a sentence?

Use "we pointed out that" to introduce a fact, observation, or argument that your group has previously mentioned or discovered. For example, "We pointed out that the data showed a clear correlation between the two variables."

What are some alternatives to "we pointed out that"?

Alternatives include "we noted that", "we observed that", "we mentioned that", or "we stated that". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "we point out that" instead of "we pointed out that"?

While "we point out that" is grammatically correct, it usually implies you are making the point in the present moment, whereas "we pointed out that" refers to something you stated in the past. Choose the tense that accurately reflects the timing of your statement.

What's the difference between "we pointed out that" and "we suggested that"?

"We pointed out that" implies a statement of fact or observation, while "we suggested that" introduces a proposal or recommendation. The former presents something as true, while the latter offers something for consideration.