we received

USAGE SUMMARY

"we received" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are describing something that you, and perhaps other people, are doing in the past. For example: "We received a package in the mail yesterday."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We received a refund.

The New York Times

"We received 60 cases.

The Guardian

"We received names.

The Guardian

We received about 300 responses.

The New York Times

"We received a false alarm.

The Guardian

We received flowers and casseroles.

The New York Times - Magazine

Today we received 30 people.

The Guardian

We received an overwhelming response.

The Guardian - Opinion

But what have we received?

The New York Times

Today we received our sentences.

The Guardian

Immediately afterwards we received complaints".

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we received", ensure the context clearly indicates who "we" refers to, especially in formal writing. Be specific to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid overusing "we received" in contexts where active voice would be more direct and engaging. For example, instead of "We received feedback that the presentation was unclear", try "Feedback indicated the presentation was unclear".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we received" typically functions as the main verb phrase in a sentence, indicating the past action of obtaining or getting something. Ludwig AI examples show its use across various domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we received" is a grammatically correct and very common phrase used to indicate the past action of obtaining something. According to Ludwig AI, it is widely employed across diverse contexts, especially in news, media, and scientific writing. While versatile, maintaining clarity regarding the referent of "we" is important. Remember to use alternatives such as "we obtained" or "we were given" to prevent monotony and ensure you select the verb that best fits the context. Also, while this phrase is generally safe to use, be mindful of potentially stronger or more direct alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we obtained

This alternative emphasizes the effort or process involved in acquiring something.

we were given

This focuses on the act of someone providing something to the subject.

we acquired

This implies ownership or a more formal transfer of something.

we were provided with

This highlights the provision of resources or assistance.

we experienced

This shifts the focus to an event or sensation rather than a tangible item.

we came into possession of

This is a more formal way of saying that something was obtained.

we were the recipients of

This emphasizes the role of being the receiver in a formal or ceremonial way.

we secured

This highlights the effort made to ensure something was received or obtained, often after some competition.

we were granted

This implies permission or official approval to receive something.

we collected

Focuses on gathering several instances of something over time or from multiple sources.

FAQs

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

The phrase "we received" indicates that you and others obtained something. For example, "We received confirmation of the booking" or "We received many applications for the job".

What can I say instead of "we received"?

You can use alternatives like "we obtained", "we were given", or "we acquired" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "we have received" instead of "we received"?

Both "we received" and "we have received" are grammatically correct, but they convey slightly different meanings. "We received" refers to a completed action in the past, while "we have received" emphasizes the present result or state.

What's the difference between "we received" and "we are receiving"?

"We received" indicates that something has already been obtained, whereas "we are receiving" indicates that something is currently being obtained or is in the process of being received.