we were counseled

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we were counseled" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to receiving advice or guidance from someone, typically in a formal or professional context. Example: "After the incident, we were counseled by our supervisor on how to handle similar situations in the future."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"Yet as young women, we were counseled by doctors, lawyers and clergymen -- professionals who were unquestionably convinced that the law guaranteed us the choice of privacy.

The New York Times

We were counseled by his attending doctor to let everyone know that, before his admission, he was not "a sick, old man" but rather a viable human being who enjoyed life.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

We were counsel with Lambda in the case striking down Colorado's antigay amendment.

The New York Times

We were counsel to Sandra Murphy on her appeal to the Nevada Supreme Court from her conviction in 2000 for having murdered Ted Binion.

The New York Times

All women were counseled following their test.

Plosone

Most respondents were counseled individually, but 69% of the married/cohabiting were counseled as couples.

BMC Public Health

"We have been counseled by our legal staff that we could be liable in some way," Kelly said, "so we'll wait until things are cleared up before we have the doctors and trainers speak publicly".

The New York Times - Sports

At the initial appointment patients were counselled about common AEs.

Clinical and Translational Medicine

Children ≥5 years were counselled directly.

Conflict and Health

And obviously the family was counseled and we needed to test the family.

European Journal of Human Genetics

"We have been counselling them and are trying to encourage them to play their game for a cause.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we were counseled", ensure that the context clearly indicates who provided the counsel and the nature of the advice given. This adds clarity and credibility to your statement.

Common error

Don't use "we were counseled" without specifying by whom or about what. Vague statements lack impact and can leave the reader wondering about the legitimacy or relevance of the advice.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we were counseled" functions as a passive construction, indicating that the subject (we) received advice or guidance from an unspecified agent. As confirmed by Ludwig, the structure adheres to standard grammatical conventions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we were counseled" is a grammatically sound and relatively common expression used to convey that a group received advice or guidance. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It is most frequently found in News & Media and Science contexts. When using this phrase, it's best to specify who provided the counsel and about what, to avoid vagueness. Alternatives include "we were advised" or "we received guidance", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we received guidance

Focuses on the act of receiving guidance, a direct synonym.

we were advised

Highlights the act of being given advice, very close in meaning.

we obtained advice

Emphasizes the acquisition of advice, slightly more formal.

we sought counsel

Implies a proactive search for advice, adding a layer of intent.

we were given direction

Suggests a more specific form of guidance, focusing on direction.

we were mentored

Indicates a longer-term, more involved form of guidance.

we were instructed

Implies a more formal and directive form of guidance.

we were educated

Suggests a learning process through guidance, broadening the scope.

we were enlightened

Highlights gaining deeper understanding through guidance.

we were briefed

Focuses on receiving specific, often concise, information or instructions.

FAQs

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

You can use "we were counseled" to indicate that your group or organization received advice or guidance. For example, "After the incident, "we were counseled" by the HR department on how to handle similar situations in the future".

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

You can use alternatives like "we received guidance", "we were advised", or "we sought counsel" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "we were counseled" in formal writing?

Yes, "we were counseled" is appropriate for formal writing. It conveys a professional and respectful tone when indicating that your group or organization received advice or instruction.

What is the difference between "we were counseled" and "we were advised"?

While "we were counseled" and "we were advised" are similar, "we were counseled" often implies a more in-depth or formal advisory process. "Advised" can be more general, while "counseled" suggests a deeper level of discussion or guidance.