we were apart

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we were apart" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to two people or entities that were at a distance from one another. For example, "After years of being apart, we finally reunited."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

We were apart for seven months.

The New York Times

In total, we were apart for two months.

The Washington Post

We got sick at night when we were apart.

The New Yorker

We were apart maybe two of the six years.

The New York Times

"The distance we were apart was so small; I don't have words to describe this".

The New York Times

"Even though it was hard to be apart, we were apart for great reasons".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

LISSA: What about when we're apart?

The New York Times

We are apart on retirement and we're significantly apart on scope, or job-protection issues.

The New York Times

But while we're apart I get so insecure.

The New Yorker

Always Reminding Me That We're Apart, 1955, 2010.

The New Yorker

If we're apart and we can't see things, I'd understand.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a past relationship or situation, use "we were apart" to clearly convey a period of separation or distance.

Common error

Avoid using "a part" when you mean "apart". "Apart" signifies separation, while "a part" means a piece or component of something.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we were apart" functions as a statement of separation. It expresses a condition where two or more individuals were not together physically or emotionally. Ludwig confirms that this is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we were apart" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a period of separation or distance between individuals. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is widely used across various contexts, particularly in news and media. When using this phrase, it's important to distinguish "apart" from "a part" to avoid confusion. Alternatives such as "we spent time separated" or "we maintained distance" can offer nuanced variations in meaning. The phrase functions as a statement of separation, serving to convey information about changes in relationships or circumstances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we spent time separated

Emphasizes the duration of the separation.

we were living separately

Highlights the separate living arrangements.

we maintained distance

Focuses on the deliberate act of keeping a distance.

we experienced a period of separation

Formal way to express a time when they weren't together.

distance existed between us

Emphasizes the abstract concept of distance.

we were disconnected

Highlights a lack of communication and emotional bond.

we were estranged

Indicates a more formal and possibly negative separation.

our paths diverged

Metaphorically describes different directions in life.

we drifted apart

Suggests a gradual separation without intention.

we lacked closeness

Highlights the absence of intimacy and proximity.

FAQs

How can I use "we were apart" in a sentence?

You can use "we were apart" to describe a period of separation between two or more people. For example, "Even though "we were apart" for many years, our friendship remained strong."

What is a formal alternative to "we were apart"?

A more formal alternative could be "we experienced a period of separation". See also: "we experienced a period of separation".

What does it mean to say "we drifted apart"?

Saying "we drifted apart" suggests a gradual separation, often without a specific event causing it. It implies a slow divergence of paths and interests, eventually leading to distance. An alternative could be "our paths diverged".

How does "we were apart" differ from "we were together"?

"We were apart" indicates a state of separation or distance, while "we were together" signifies being in close proximity or in a relationship. They are antonyms, representing opposite states of connection and physical presence.