we were able to complete

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we were able to complete" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in any context where you are referring to a successful completion of a task or goal. For example: After months of hard work, we were able to complete the project on time and within budget.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

"It feels fantastic that we were able to complete the tour with him.

The Guardian - Music

"By creating a calm environment, we were able to complete the work in Isfahan".

The New York Times

"Fortunately," he added, "we were able to complete the trade we did instead".

The New York Times

"In fact, by creating a calm environment, we were able to complete the work in Isfahan," a crucial Iranian nuclear facility.

The New York Times

"Last month on the Lexington Avenue line, we were able to complete tasks that would normally take weeks in a matter of days while impacting a smaller number of customers.

The New York Times

The process is self-reinforcing: we recall with pleasure that we were able to complete the task (of reading the article) instead of leaving it undone and that satisfaction, in turn, makes us more likely to click on lists again — even ones we hate-read.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

"I'm happy, at least, that we're able to complete that discussion from last winter.

The New York Times

As we set about this task, we bishops are very conscious of the fact that we were not able to come to this moment alone, nor will we be able to complete it alone.

The New York Times

"If one day we are able to complete the fuel cycle and the world sees that it has no choice — that we do possess the technology — then the situation will be different," he said.

The New York Times

We are able to complete the screening in a relatively short period of time.

BMC Medical Genomics

Today we are able to complete our school calendar successfully in spite of huge challenges," said Ms. Montalban.

Unicef

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we were able to complete", ensure the context clearly indicates what "we" refers to and what was completed. Clarity is key for effective communication.

Common error

Avoid using "we were able to complete" when a more direct, active voice construction would be clearer and more concise. For example, instead of "we were able to complete the report", consider "we completed the report".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we were able to complete" functions as a declarative statement, asserting the successful accomplishment of a task or activity. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase is correct and usable in written English. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its use in reporting completed projects, investigations, or agreements.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

37%

News & Media

37%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we were able to complete" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to indicate the successful finishing of a task or project. As Ludwig AI points out, it is appropriate for various contexts, especially in news, science, and business communications. While it conveys accomplishment, it's important to consider whether a more direct and active voice might enhance clarity. By understanding its function, purpose, and common usage, writers can effectively employ "we were able to complete" in their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we succeeded in finishing

Focuses on the success aspect of completion, implying effort and overcoming challenges.

we managed to conclude

Highlights the element of managing resources or circumstances to reach a conclusion.

we accomplished the task of finishing

Emphasizes the achievement of a specific task.

we finalized the project

Implies bringing a project to its ultimate and complete state.

we brought the undertaking to a close

A more formal way of expressing completion, suggesting a deliberate action.

we carried out the full execution

Focuses on the execution aspect of the task until its completion.

we saw the endeavor through to the end

Emphasizes perseverance and commitment until the end of an endeavor.

we fulfilled the requirements

Highlights meeting the necessary criteria for completion.

we executed the plan completely

Emphasizes thorough execution as a key component of finishing.

we realised our objective

Stresses the achievement of an initial objective.

FAQs

How can I use "we were able to complete" in a sentence?

Use "we were able to complete" to describe the successful finishing of a task or project, such as "After several setbacks, we were able to complete the construction ahead of schedule".

What's a more concise alternative to "we were able to complete"?

Alternatives include "we finished", "we completed", or "we accomplished". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "we were able to complete" or "we could complete"?

"We were able to complete" implies successful completion, while "we could complete" suggests potential or ability without certainty of completion. The choice depends on whether the task was actually finished.

What's the difference between "we were able to complete" and "we managed to complete"?

"We managed to complete" emphasizes the difficulty overcome in finishing a task, implying that it was challenging. Whereas, "we were able to complete" simply indicates that the task was successfully done without particular emphasis on difficulty.