we previously

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we previously" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer back to something that was mentioned or discussed earlier in the text or conversation. Example: "In our last meeting, we previously discussed the budget allocation for the upcoming project."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We previously talked about CPI.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

We are definitely taking bigger risks than we previously did".

The New York Times

We previously said that Ospreys beat Munster 43-0.

The Guardian - Sport

We previously allowed a six-month embargo period.

Harvard University

We previously discussed the SEC concept release here.

Harvard University

We previously reported that GN ameliorates HFD-induced hepatic steatosis22.

Nature

We previously reported similar isoenzyme-specific inhibition profiles for trilostane.

The Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

We previously reported on the bioengineering of myoblast-based constructs.

The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery

We previously demonstrated widespread dissatisfaction with its 2008 ver. 5.

Journal of Surgical Education

We previously reported responses to two 30-day intravenous (i.v).v

Molecular Therapy

We previously identified a native electron transport system for CYP175A1.

Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we previously" to clearly link current information or arguments back to earlier discussions or findings, providing context and building a cohesive narrative. This ensures readers understand the progression of ideas and the basis for present claims.

Common error

Avoid using "we previously" repeatedly within a short span of text. If referencing multiple past points, consider summarizing them or using alternative phrases to maintain readability and avoid redundancy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we previously" functions as an adverbial phrase that modifies a verb. According to Ludwig, this phrase is correct. It indicates that an action, statement, or piece of information has been presented or occurred before the current point in the discourse. It serves to connect the current statement with prior context.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

39%

Academia

19%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we previously" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to connect current statements with prior information. As stated by Ludwig, this phrase is valid and usable in written English. It appears frequently in scientific, news, and academic contexts, indicating its role in providing context and building cohesive arguments. To improve writing, use it to link ideas clearly, but avoid overuse. Alternative phrases like "we earlier" or "as we noted before" can help prevent redundancy. By understanding its function and usage patterns, writers can effectively incorporate "we previously" to enhance the clarity and coherence of their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we earlier

Indicates a prior action or statement, similar to "we previously", but may imply a shorter time difference.

we mentioned before

Highlights that something was verbally referenced at an earlier time.

we had stated

Emphasizes a formal declaration or assertion made at a prior time.

we have already

Focuses on the completion of an action before the current moment.

as we noted before

Draws attention to a prior observation or point that was made.

it was previously stated

Shifts the focus away from who made the statement, emphasizing the prior statement itself.

in our previous discussion

Specifically references a prior conversation or meeting.

beforehand we

Inverted order of the words, but refers to what was made before.

we formerly

Indicates a state or condition that existed in the past but no longer does.

we hitherto

Refers to something done up to a particular point in time in the past.

FAQs

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

The phrase "we previously" is used to refer to something that has already been mentioned or discussed. For example: "We previously reported on the bioengineering of myoblast-based constructs".

What's a more formal alternative to "we previously"?

While "we previously" is suitable for most contexts, more formal alternatives could include "we earlier stated", or "as "we noted before"" depending on the context. These options might be preferable in highly formal or academic writing.

Is it okay to use "we previously" at the beginning of a paragraph?

Yes, using "we previously" at the beginning of a paragraph is acceptable, especially when the paragraph aims to build upon or reference information discussed in the preceding paragraph. However, ensure the connection is clear to avoid confusing the reader.

How does "we previously" differ from "we earlier"?

While both phrases indicate something that happened before, "we earlier" often suggests a shorter time frame or a more direct and recent reference compared to "we previously", which can refer to something discussed further in the past. The choice depends on the specific context and the desired emphasis on recency.