we were known

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we were known" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It can be used in a variety of contexts to describe being recognized or familiar to others. Here are a few examples: 1. "As soon as we stepped into the restaurant, we were known by the staff and given our usual table." 2. "Despite being a small town, their music had spread far and wide and they were known as the most talented band in the county." 3. "The women's rights activist was a fierce leader and her name was known throughout the country." 4. "At the peak of their career, the famous actors were known to be the highest paid in Hollywood." 5. "The quiet and reserved student surprised everyone when she gave a powerful speech and from that moment on, she was known as a confident speaker."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

We were known everywhere.

The New York Times - Magazine

We were known for always drawing.

The New York Times

We were known as McGrory's bearers".

The New York Times

We were known as the one-take Osmonds.

The Guardian - Money

"We were known as people who could not have children.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"We made sure we were known to the K.G.B. resident in any given capital.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

We are known.

The New York Times

We are known for science and technology.

The Economist

We are known as extraordinarily nice people.

The New York Times

We're known for wearing matching outfits".

The New Yorker

We are known for keeping the ball.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we were known", ensure that the context clearly indicates by whom or for what the subject was known. Providing specific details enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "we were known" without specifying what you were known for. For example, instead of saying "we were known", specify "we were known for our innovative designs".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we were known" functions as a passive construction indicating a past state of recognition or reputation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and used to describe how a group was perceived. The examples illustrate various contexts where this phrase is employed to denote past recognition.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Science

4%

Encyclopedias

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we were known" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe a past reputation or characteristic. Ludwig AI validates its widespread usage across various contexts. As demonstrated by Ludwig's examples, this phrase often appears in news and media, formal business settings, and even on wikis. While versatile, it's crucial to provide context by specifying what the subject was known for to avoid vagueness. Alternatives like "we were recognized" or "we were well-known" can offer similar meanings depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. By ensuring clarity and understanding its typical usage, writers can effectively employ "we were known" in their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we were well-known

Emphasizes broad familiarity or recognition.

we were recognized

Emphasizes the act of being acknowledged.

we were seen as

Emphasizes the public image or impression.

we had a reputation

Focuses on the reputation the subject possessed.

we were perceived

Highlights the way the subject was understood or interpreted.

we were regarded

Stresses the manner in which the subject was viewed.

we were identified

Highlights the act of being distinguished or singled out.

we were considered

Focuses on the act of being evaluated or judged.

we were notable

Highlights the quality of being worthy of attention.

we were famous

Indicates widespread recognition or renown.

FAQs

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

You can use "we were known" to describe a past reputation or characteristic. For example, "Before our rebranding, "we were known" for our affordable prices but low quality."

What are some alternatives to "we were known"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "we were known" include "we were recognized", "we were regarded", or "we were well-known".

Is it better to say "we were known" or "we are known"?

The choice depends on the time frame you're referring to. Use "we were known" for past reputations, and "we are known" if it's still current. For example, "In the past, "we were known" for our speedy delivery, but now "we are known" for our reliability."

What is the difference between "we were known" and "we were familiar"?

"We were known" suggests a public awareness or reputation, while "we were familiar" indicates personal acquaintance or knowledge. You would use ""we were known"" if you're talking about a company's brand awareness, and "we were familiar" if you're talking about knowing a particular area.