we were divided

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we were divided" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where a group of people has differing opinions or has been split into factions. Example: "During the debate, we were divided on the issue of climate change, with some advocating for immediate action while others were more hesitant."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

"We were divided into groups.

Independent

We were divided into two groups.

The New Yorker

"We were divided about what to do.

The New York Times

We were divided into five groups of 10 people each.

The New York Times

It was over: we were divided and the cops of Staten Island won again.

The Guardian - Opinion

We were divided on this: there were "the girls who didn't" and "the girls who did".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

We are divided geographically, politically and tribally.

The Guardian

The only way we lose is if we are divided".

The New York Times

Ugandan refugees should be one community but we are divided.

The Guardian

"Now we are divided into the rich and the poor".

The New York Times

More than ever we're divided by different agendas.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we were divided" to clearly indicate that a group was separated into distinct parts, whether due to differing opinions, logistical reasons, or external forces. Ensure the context clarifies the nature and consequences of the division.

Common error

Avoid using "we were divided" when describing individual differences within a group; this phrase typically refers to a more formal or structural separation, not just minor variations in personal traits.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we were divided" functions as a declarative statement indicating a past condition of separation or disagreement within a group. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and common usage. Examples show its application in diverse scenarios, from formal groupings to ideological rifts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Formal & Business

16%

Science

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we were divided" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, to express that a group was separated or disagreed in the past. It appears most frequently in news and media, but also in formal business settings, and less often in scientific ones. The phrase serves to inform about or highlight a past division. While generally neutral in register, the context can influence the perceived tone. For more nuanced expression, alternatives like ""we were split"" or ""we disagreed"" can be used.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we were split up

Emphasizes physical separation or being broken into smaller groups.

we were separated

Indicates a physical or conceptual distancing from each other.

we were categorized

Focuses on the act of being placed into distinct categories.

we were grouped

Highlights the formation of groups, often implying a shared purpose within each group.

we were at odds

Stresses disagreement and conflict among the group.

we disagreed

Directly states the presence of differing opinions within the group.

we had differing opinions

Highlights the existence of multiple viewpoints.

we were in disagreement

Formal way to mention lack of consensus between the parts.

factions emerged within us

Implies a more complex and potentially contentious division.

we became polarized

Suggests a strong division into opposing sides.

FAQs

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

The phrase "we were divided" indicates a separation of a group into distinct parts. For example: "At the beginning of the course, "we were divided" into squads of six".

What are some alternatives to "we were divided"?

Alternatives include "we were split", "we were separated", or "we disagreed", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "we are divided" or "we were divided"?

Both are grammatically correct, but "we are divided" refers to a present state, while "we were divided" refers to a past state. For example, "Now "we are divided" and our ability to see things clearly is gone" implies the division continues, unlike "we were divided".

In what situations is it appropriate to use "we were divided"?

Use "we were divided" to describe situations where a group was formally or informally separated into different groups or when there were significant disagreements within a group. For example: "In general studies "we were divided" into groups and each group had one sex education lesson".