we received just

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we received just" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that something was received recently or in a limited quantity. Example: "We received just the information we needed to proceed with the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

This was quite a theme in many of the letters we received; just how disorderly a handwritten text can be, compared with the linearity of a document on a screen.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

During this time, we received just one unrelated customer report of a card decline. .

TechCrunch

Bunk, says Watson: "It's real cute for Jeff to say we got an advance copy when it was 110 pages we received just three hours in advance".

Forbes

We received just an hour to learn gas mask usage.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

"But assuming that we receive just one inch of rainfall, whenever that happens, we should be ready with the structures to harvest water on the land.

The Guardian

As we stand in the new year 5776, can we forgive ourselves for racism and all the benefits we receive just from being white?

Huffington Post

B.F.: At this point we have received just over 500 responses.

Science Magazine

Sammy Sosa received just 12 percent.

The New York Times - Sports

Labor received just over $78m.

The Guardian

We received rations just three days ago and [mine] are already gone.

Huffington Post

UNRWA anticipates that this year's emergency work in those areas,, for which we need $300m, will receive just £120m from our mainly state donors.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using this phrase, ensure that the context clearly indicates what was received and why its limited quantity or recent arrival is significant.

Common error

Avoid using "we received just" when the quantity isn't particularly small or the timing isn't especially recent. Overusing it can diminish its impact and make your writing sound repetitive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we received just" functions as a statement indicating the receipt of something, often emphasizing the limited quantity or recent arrival. Ludwig's examples show its use in conveying specific information about what was obtained.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Reference

3%

Wiki

1%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we received just" is a versatile phrase used to indicate the receipt of something, often with an emphasis on its limited quantity or the recency of the event. As Ludwig highlights, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used in diverse contexts, especially in news and media. While it is generally neutral in tone, alternative phrases like "we only received" or more formal options can be employed depending on the desired emphasis and context. Remembering to use it appropriately and being mindful of its specific nuances will enhance your writing and ensure clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we only received

Emphasizes the limited quantity of what was received.

we merely received

Highlights the small amount or insignificance of the received item.

we recently obtained

Focuses on the recent acquisition of something.

we have just obtained

Focuses on the immediacy of the acquisition.

we lately got

Highlights recent reception, more casual tone.

we had only

Indicates a limitation on what was possessed.

we barely got

Indicates a narrow margin by which something was received.

we were given only

Highlights the limited nature of the gift.

we were furnished only with

Emphasizes that the only element received was an specific one.

we have hardly received

Expresses that amount received is scarce.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "we received just" to emphasize the small amount?

To emphasize the limited quantity, you can use alternatives such as "we only received", "we merely received", or "we scarcely received". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to include "just" in "we received just"?

No, it's not always necessary. Omitting "just", as in "we received", is perfectly acceptable if you don't need to emphasize the limited quantity or recent timing. The inclusion of "just" adds a specific nuance but isn't grammatically required.

What is a more formal alternative to "we received just"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "we were furnished only with" or "we obtained merely". These options sound more professional and less colloquial than "we received just".

How does "we received just" differ from "we had just received"?

"We had just received" implies a recent action in the past, highlighting the immediacy of the receipt relative to another past event. In contrast, "we received just" focuses on the present or a more general timeframe, emphasizing the quantity or nature of what was received. The first implies a past event and the latter a broader scenario.