we were initiated

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we were initiated" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is describing the process of being formally introduced or accepted into a group, organization, or ritual. Example: "After months of training and preparation, we were initiated into the society during a special ceremony."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

And so we were initiated.

The New York Times - Travel

The fact that we were initiated into it very early gave me and my sister Delphine a headstart.

The Guardian

With a real wedding — not a commitment ceremony, not a domestic partnership registry — we were initiated into a crowded circle of people who automatically affirmed our very beings.

The New York Times

With a shot of Screech and a kiss of another cod, we were initiated.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

To the bloggers worldwide who get what we're trying to do – thanks for seeing beyond the initial boot feature and into the revolution we're initiating.

TechCrunch

It means we're initiating contact, getting to the line.

The New York Times - Sports

We are initiating coverage on United Utilities (sell, target price 730p), Severn Trent (sell, target price 1735p), and Pennon (hold, target price 835p).

The Guardian - Business

"There is a very active art world in the U.K.," she said, "and we're initiating outreach.

The New York Times - Arts

"As a result, we are initiating the process that has been in place for decades to resolve royalty disputes with Ascap".

The New York Times

To help that process along, perhaps, we're initiating a weekly feature in which, every Friday afternoon, various people at the magazine — writers, editors, artists, and other kibitzers — press on you a favorite from the past.

The New Yorker

"Part of the reason that sometimes it seems as if the United States is attracting some dissent is because we're initiating ideas," the president said at the news conference in Seoul.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we were initiated" when referring to a formal introduction or acceptance into a group, organization, or process that involves specific rituals or ceremonies. Ensure the context clearly indicates what the subject was initiated into.

Common error

Avoid using "we were initiated" in contexts that are too informal or lack a sense of ritual or ceremony. Opt for simpler alternatives like "we started" or "we began" if the situation doesn't warrant a formal tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we were initiated" functions as a passive construction indicating that the subject (we) underwent a process of initiation. As Ludwig AI explains, it describes a formal introduction or acceptance, often into a group or organization.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we were initiated" is a phrase used to describe a formal introduction or acceptance into a group, organization, or process, often involving specific rituals or ceremonies. Ludwig AI confirms that it's grammatically correct and usable, especially in news or science contexts. While not very common, it conveys a distinct sense of formality and transformative experience. When writing, ensure the context warrants the formal tone and that the subject of the initiation is clear. If a less formal tone is desired, consider alternatives like "we started" or "we began".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we underwent initiation

Emphasizes the process of initiation as something experienced.

we were inducted

Suggests a formal acceptance into an organization or group.

we were formally introduced

Highlights the introductory aspect of being initiated.

we were welcomed into the fold

Implies a sense of belonging and acceptance into a group.

we entered into

Focuses on the act of entering a new phase or state.

we began our journey

Highlights the start of a new experience or path.

we were brought into the fold

Similar to 'welcomed into the fold', but emphasizes being brought in.

we were inaugurated

Suggests a formal beginning or commencement.

we were sworn in

Implies a formal oath or promise taken during initiation.

we took the first step

Focuses on the initial action of starting something new.

FAQs

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

Use "we were initiated" to describe a formal entry into a group, organization, or process, often involving specific rituals or ceremonies. For instance, "After months of training, "we were initiated" into the secret society."

What's a less formal way to say "we were initiated"?

If the context doesn't require a formal tone, you can use alternatives like "we started", "we began", or "we were introduced" depending on the specific meaning you want to convey.

Is "we were initiated" appropriate for business writing?

The appropriateness of "we were initiated" in business writing depends on the context. It's suitable if describing a formal onboarding process or introduction to a specific project or team, but it might sound overly dramatic in less formal situations.

What is the difference between "we were initiated" and "we joined"?

"We joined" generally indicates a simple act of becoming a member of a group or organization. "We were initiated" implies a more formal, often ritualistic, process of being welcomed and integrated into a group, typically involving specific ceremonies or steps.