we were determined

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we were determined" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express a strong resolve or commitment to achieving a goal or outcome in a past context. Example: "Despite the challenges we faced, we were determined to succeed in our mission."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"We were determined," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

We were determined not to lose.

Independent

"We were determined to enjoy it.

The New York Times - Sports

We were determined to save her home.

The New York Times

We were determined to keep that approach".

The New York Times

We were determined to uphold the dignity of our people".

The Guardian - Sport

"But we were determined to be with each other".

The New York Times - Magazine

But we were determined to have our holiday.

The Guardian

But we were determined not to fake it.

The New York Times

We were determined not to join that tally.

The New York Times

We were determined to win right to the end.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we were determined" to clearly communicate a past decision or strong intention, especially when facing obstacles or challenges. For example: "Despite the setbacks, "we were determined" to finish the project on time."

Common error

Avoid using "we are determined" or "we will be determined" when referring to a past decision. "We were determined" indicates a state of mind or decision that occurred in the past.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we were determined" functions as a declarative statement expressing a past state of mind characterized by strong resolve. Ludwig AI's examples show it being used to convey commitment in overcoming obstacles or achieving specific goals. It indicates a decision made and adhered to in the past.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Huffington Post

17%

The New York Times

3%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we were determined" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to convey a strong, past resolution. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. Its usage spans various contexts, primarily appearing in news and media. The expression is generally neutral in tone, suitable for professional and general communication. When employing this phrase, ensure correct tense usage to accurately reflect past intentions. Alternatives such as "we were resolved" or "we were committed" can offer nuanced variations while retaining the core meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we were resolved

Replaces "determined" with a synonym emphasizing a firm decision.

we were committed

Indicates dedication and a pledge to a specific course of action.

we made up our minds

Emphasizes the decision-making aspect of determination.

we had resolved

Similar to "we were resolved" but with a slightly different tense nuance.

we were intent on

Highlights the focus and intention behind the determination.

we were set on

Indicates a firm and unwavering decision.

we had every intention

Focuses on the intended action and the commitment to it.

we were hell-bent on

A more emphatic and forceful way of expressing strong determination.

we took a stand

Emphasizes a firm position and commitment to a cause.

we steeled ourselves

Implies mental and emotional preparation for a challenging task.

FAQs

What does "we were determined" mean?

The phrase "we were determined" indicates a firm decision or strong resolution made in the past to achieve a specific goal or outcome, even in the face of difficulties.

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

You can use it to express a past commitment: "Despite the challenges, "we were determined" to succeed". Other options include: "we were resolved", "we were committed", or "we made up our minds".

What are some alternatives to "we were determined"?

Alternatives include phrases like "we were resolute", "we were committed", "we were intent on", or "we made up our minds", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "we are determined" instead of "we were determined"?

The correct tense depends on the context. "We are determined" indicates a present commitment, while "we were determined" refers to a past commitment. For example, "We are determined to win this game" (present), vs. "We were determined to win that game" (past).