we were bound by

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we were bound by" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a sense of obligation or restriction imposed by rules, agreements, or circumstances. Example: "In our previous agreement, we were bound by the terms set forth in the contract."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

"We were bound by mutual trust".

The New York Times

Despite the all-parties-and-none spectrum of attendance, we were bound by a common passion.

The Guardian - Opinion

The lawyer for the Village of Huntington Bay, James F. Gesualdi of Melville, said that based upon the "club's rejection of the condition, we were bound by state law to rescind the approval".

The New York Times

"Wembley Song"'s lyrics continue to detail the love affair: "The seed was planted, you took us in like your own, we were bound by tradition, my how we've grown" – acknowledgement of the faith shown by the UK when "every" US label had rejected the band.

Independent

They were arguing that we were bound by the policies of the previous administration, which in itself is a nonsense".

BBC

We were bound by that agreement, Paul!

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

We're bound by it.

The New Yorker

And we are bound by them.

The New York Times - Sports

"Because we are bound by duty.

The New York Times - Books

We are bound by the evidence".

The New Yorker

"We are bound by blood".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we were bound by" to clearly express obligations, agreements, or restrictions stemming from external sources, such as laws, contracts, or shared principles.

Common error

While grammatically correct, using "we were bound by" in very informal conversation can sound overly formal. Opt for simpler phrases like "we had to" or "we were supposed to" for casual settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we were bound by" functions as a declarative statement indicating a past state of obligation, constraint, or connection. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase as grammatically correct. Examples show its usage in legal, ethical, and social contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "we were bound by" effectively communicates a state of past obligation or constraint. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, this phrase serves to explain or justify past actions by referencing external factors like laws or agreements. While versatile, it's advisable to consider the formality of the context and opt for simpler alternatives in casual settings. Related phrases include "we were constrained by" and "we were obligated to", offering nuanced ways to convey similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we were constrained by

Focuses more on the restriction or limitation imposed.

we were obligated to

Highlights a sense of duty or legal requirement.

we were tied to

Emphasizes a strong connection or dependency.

we were compelled by

Indicates being forced or driven by something.

we were governed by

Suggests being controlled or regulated by rules or principles.

we were under the authority of

Highlights a hierarchical power relationship.

we were subject to

Indicates being susceptible to certain conditions or rules.

we were committed to

Implies a firm dedication or pledge.

we were adherent to

Signifies strict compliance with rules or principles.

we were in accordance with

Highlights agreement or conformity with something.

FAQs

How to use "we were bound by" in a sentence?

The phrase "we were bound by" is used to indicate obligation, restriction, or connection to something. For instance, "We were bound by the contract" or "We were bound by a shared sense of duty".

What can I say instead of "we were bound by"?

Alternatives include "we were constrained by", "we were obligated to", or "we were tied to", depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "we were bound by" or "we are bound by"?

"We were bound by" indicates a past obligation or restriction, while "we are bound by" indicates a present one. The correct choice depends on the time frame you're referring to.

What's the difference between "we were bound by" and "we felt bound by"?

"We were bound by" indicates an objective obligation, often legal or contractual. "We felt bound by" suggests a subjective sense of obligation, possibly based on moral or emotional reasons.