we were addressed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we were addressed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a situation where a group of people was spoken to or given information by someone else. Example: "During the meeting, we were addressed by the CEO, who outlined the company's future plans."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

We were addressed only by our surnames and caned for misdemeanours.

The Guardian - Opinion

From the beginning, we were addressed in Italian and were listened to encouragingly when we replied in the same tongue.

The Guardian

On the final day of the meeting, we were addressed by General Wes Clark, then very senior in the Pentagon and to become a Democratic presidential candidate in 2004.

The Guardian

We were addressed by the people who had been our persecutors.

BBC

"From the beginning on, we were addressed as a couple when communicating with the university," Schreiterer says.

Science Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

At least WE are addressing one aspect of it.

The Guardian

The constituency we were addressing was worried about Islamaphobia.

The Guardian - Opinion

From a different direction, we were addressing the same problem".

The Guardian

"We're addressing a world audience too".

The New York Times - Arts

MR. OBAMA:  We're addressing that, ma'am.

The New York Times

"We're addressing a very crucial need".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we were addressed", ensure the context is appropriate for a formal or neutral tone. This phrase is often used when describing an official communication or a structured presentation.

Common error

Avoid overusing passive voice constructions like "we were addressed" when an active voice would be more direct and engaging. Consider who did the addressing and rephrase to use an active verb if appropriate, for example, "The CEO addressed us."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we were addressed" functions as a passive construction, indicating that the subject (we) received an action (being addressed). Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It emphasizes the reception of communication.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we were addressed" is a grammatically sound passive construction used to describe a formal communication directed to a group. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, though its frequency is relatively rare. It is most commonly found in news and media contexts, indicating a neutral to professional register. When using this phrase, consider whether an active voice would be more effective, and ensure that the context warrants a formal tone. Remember that alternatives like "we were spoken to" or "we were informed" may be more appropriate depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we were informed

Highlights the reception of information, often in a formal context.

we received communication

Focuses on the reception of information rather than the act of being spoken to.

we were spoken to

A more direct and less formal way of saying "we were addressed".

we were briefed

Implies receiving specific information or instructions.

we heard from

Indicates receiving any form of communication from someone.

we were given audience

Suggests a formal setting where attention was granted.

we were given a speech

Highlights the delivery of a formal speech.

we were lectured

Implies being spoken to in a didactic or critical manner.

we attended a presentation

Focuses on the act of attending a presentation, where someone addresses the audience.

we had a meeting

Focuses on the act of meeting where people exchange views or receive information.

FAQs

What does "we were addressed" mean?

The phrase "we were addressed" means that a group of people (represented by "we") were spoken to or given information by someone, usually in a formal or official setting. It implies a structured communication, like a speech or presentation.

What can I say instead of "we were addressed"?

You can use alternatives like "we were spoken to", "we were informed", or "we received communication" depending on the context.

Is "we were addressed" formal or informal?

"We were addressed" is generally considered a formal or neutral phrase. It is suitable for official reports, news articles, or business communications. Less formal options include "we were spoken to".

How to use "we were addressed" in a sentence?

Here's an example: "During the conference, "we were addressed" by several keynote speakers." Ensure the context involves a group receiving formal communication.