we were exposed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we were exposed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing situations where individuals have been made vulnerable to something, such as risks, dangers, or influences. Example: "During the experiment, we were exposed to various environmental factors that could affect the results."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

We were exposed and raw, suddenly weakened, even somewhat helpless.

The New York Times

We were exposed to death and illness every day".

The New York Times

"We were exposed to a very good team," said Cotter.

The Guardian - Sport

So what were the odds we were exposed?

The New York Times - Health

We were exposed, vulnerable to marriage's strange power once more.

The New Yorker

We were exposed to different sides of each other.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

We are exposed.

The Guardian

"Now, 66 years later, we are exposed to radiation again".

The New York Times

"We are exposed to the international reality," he said.

The New York Times

We're exposed to far more audience than we would be on any other platform.

The Guardian - Tech

Outfield production, he said, is the one area where "we're exposed a little bit".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we were exposed", ensure the context clearly indicates what "we" were exposed to. Specificity enhances clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "we were exposed" without clarifying what the subject was exposed to. Failing to provide context leaves the reader guessing and weakens the statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we were exposed" functions as a passive construction, indicating that the subject ("we") underwent an experience or influence, often negative. Ludwig's examples showcase its use in diverse contexts, from physical exposure to radiation to metaphorical exposure of weaknesses.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we were exposed" is a versatile phrase used to indicate that a group has undergone a significant experience, often negative or revealing. According to Ludwig, it functions grammatically as a passive construction. While Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, context is crucial to ensure clarity about what the subject was exposed to. Occurring frequently in news and media, it's important to maintain a neutral tone and specify the source or cause of exposure. Consider alternatives like "we faced" or "we were subjected to" depending on the desired emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we were subjected to

This alternative emphasizes the experience of being acted upon, highlighting a lack of control over the situation.

we were vulnerable

This shifts the focus to the state of being susceptible to harm or negative influence, rather than the act of exposure itself.

we faced

This alternative replaces "exposed" with a verb indicating confrontation with a situation, focusing on the act of encountering something.

we encountered

This alternative is similar to "we faced" but suggests a more passive experience of coming across something.

we experienced

This is a more general term that indicates undergoing something, without specifying the nature of the experience as negative or dangerous.

we were open to

This suggests a state of receptiveness, either positive or negative, differing from the inherently negative connotation of "exposed".

we laid bare

This alternative emphasizes the action of revealing something about ourselves or a situation, suggesting vulnerability through disclosure.

we were revealed

This is emphasizing a process where something was uncovered about you.

we ran into

Using "ran into" suggests an element of chance or surprise in encountering something, making it a less direct substitute.

we came across

Similar to "ran into", this phrase emphasizes an accidental discovery or meeting, rather than a deliberate exposure or experience.

FAQs

What does "we were exposed" mean?

The phrase "we were exposed" generally means that a group of people were subjected to something, often something harmful or revealing. This could be a physical substance like radiation, or a situation that revealed a weakness or vulnerability.

What are some alternatives to "we were exposed"?

Depending on the specific context, you could use alternatives like "we faced", "we encountered", "we were subjected to", or "we were vulnerable".

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

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but they have different meanings. "We were exposed" refers to a past event, while "we are exposed" describes a current state of vulnerability or risk.

What's the difference between "we were exposed to" and "we experienced"?

"We were exposed to" often implies an unwelcome or harmful experience, while "we experienced" is more neutral and can refer to positive or negative situations. For example, "we were exposed to radiation" versus "we experienced a cultural exchange".