we were formally introduced

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we were formally introduced" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a situation where two or more people meet each other in a formal context, often for the first time. Example: "At the conference, we were formally introduced by the event organizer, which made the networking process much smoother."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Before we are formally introduced to them two-thirds of the way into the film, we've listened to the adoring messages they taped for each other while Enzo was still behind bars and Mary was waiting for him.

The New York Times

There they were formally introduced to Mr. Fair and given songs and choreography to learn.

The New York Times - Arts

Three months after the consultants had first appeared, they were formally introduced.

Harvard Business Review

But she gave Mr. Robinson a second chance at a Harlem nightclub some months later, when they were formally introduced.

The New York Times

The reforms, which ministers say are needed to revive the economy, were formally introduced on Thursday.

BBC

They were formally introduced in 2004 as its BK Baguette line of sandwiches, that replacing the Chicken Whopper sandwiches.

Wikipedia

It's about time you were formally introduced to the lady responsible for all of that catchiness: Charlotte Aitchison aka Charli XCX.

Huffington Post

Water fees were formally introduced in 1982.

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

Water fees were formally introduced in 1982, but the charge was quite insignificant and never actually collected.

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

Following meetings in 1963 and 1973, the conferences were formally introduced in 1981.

European Parliament

7.02pm: We're being formally introduced to the coaches now.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience: if the context is casual, a simpler phrasing like "we met" might be more appropriate, while formal situations benefit from the added emphasis of "formally introduced".

Common error

Avoid using "we were formally introduced" in casual settings or when the introduction was informal. Overusing formal language can sound stilted or unnatural, especially among close acquaintances.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we were formally introduced" functions as a declarative statement describing a past event. It indicates that the subjects underwent a structured or ceremonial introduction, implying adherence to etiquette or protocol. Although Ludwig doesn't provide examples for this exact phrase, it confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we were formally introduced" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a structured or ceremonial meeting. Although Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, there are no exact examples in the provided data. This phrase is suitable for both written and spoken English, especially when emphasizing the adherence to etiquette or protocol. While alternatives like "we met" exist, they lack the specific nuance of a formal introduction. When using this phrase, consider the context to ensure it aligns with the intended level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we had a formal introduction

Focuses on the event of the introduction itself, emphasizing its formal nature.

we were officially acquainted

Indicates an official recognition or acknowledgement between individuals.

we met formally

Simplifies the phrasing, emphasizing the act of meeting in a formal setting.

we were properly introduced

Highlights the correctness and adherence to etiquette during the introduction.

we underwent a formal introduction

Suggests a process or procedure was involved in the introduction.

a formal introduction took place

Shifts the focus to the event itself, rather than the people involved.

we were presented formally

Emphasizes the act of being presented to each other, typically by a third party.

we were introduced in a formal setting

Specifies the environment where the introduction occurred.

our introduction was formal

Highlights the formal quality of the introduction, as an adjective.

we came to know each other formally

Focuses on the gradual process of getting acquainted after the initial introduction.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use "we were formally introduced"?

Use "we were formally introduced" when the meeting involved a structured or ceremonial introduction, often facilitated by a third party, emphasizing adherence to etiquette or protocol.

What's the difference between "we were formally introduced" and "we met"?

"We met" is a general term for any encounter. "We were formally introduced" implies a more structured and often ceremonial introduction, highlighting formality and protocol.

Are there alternatives to "we were formally introduced" that convey a similar meaning?

Yes, alternatives include "we had a formal introduction" or "we were officially acquainted", depending on the desired level of emphasis on the formality.

Is "we were formally introduced" suitable for both written and spoken English?

Yes, "we were formally introduced" is appropriate for both written and spoken English, particularly in contexts where formality is important to convey.