we were pleased

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we were pleased" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express satisfaction or happiness about a particular situation or outcome. Example: "After reviewing the project results, we were pleased to see that our efforts had paid off."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

We were pleased to accept.

The New York Times

"We were pleased," she said.

The New York Times

We were pleased he was our patron".

Independent

Still, we were pleased with the results".

The New York Times

"We were pleased with the calendar.

The New York Times

But we were pleased with Kwame tonight".

The New York Times - Sports

You liked it and we were pleased.

The Guardian

"We were pleased where things ended up".

The New York Times

We were pleased to see each other.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

We were able to locate all six gorilla families and we were pleased about that.

Yale University

Although we were pleased to see that turnover in this business has grown strongly in Q3".

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for a more enthusiastic tone, consider stronger synonyms such as "we were delighted" or "we were thrilled".

Common error

While appropriate for professional settings, excessive use of "we were pleased" in casual conversation can sound stiff. Opt for more natural alternatives like "we were happy" or "we liked it".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we were pleased" functions as a statement expressing satisfaction or contentment. It typically indicates a positive reaction to a specific event, result, or situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Academia

18%

Science

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we were pleased" is a grammatically sound and widely used expression to convey satisfaction or approval. It is common in news, academic and scientific contexts. According to Ludwig AI, its use is considered correct. Alternatives include we were delighted or we were happy, depending on the desired tone. While appropriate for formal settings, avoid overuse in casual conversation. When you aim for a more enthusiastic tone, stronger synonyms such as "we were delighted" or "we were thrilled" are viable. Use "we were pleased" to convey satisfaction with a specific outcome, result, or action.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we were delighted

Indicates a higher degree of happiness or satisfaction.

we were happy

A more general expression of contentment or satisfaction.

we felt satisfied

Focuses on the feeling of contentment with the outcome.

it pleased us

Shifts the focus to the source of pleasure rather than the feeling itself.

we found it satisfactory

Emphasizes the adequacy of something in meeting expectations.

we appreciated

Highlights gratitude and recognition of value.

we welcomed

Indicates a positive reception or acceptance.

we were content

Suggests a state of peaceful satisfaction.

we were gratified

Expresses satisfaction and pleasure, often in response to a kindness or benefit.

we rejoiced

Implies a more exuberant expression of happiness or delight.

FAQs

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

You can use "we were pleased" to express satisfaction with a particular situation or outcome. For example, "We were pleased with the progress of the project" or "We were pleased to receive your positive feedback."

What can I say instead of "we were pleased"?

You can use alternatives like "we were delighted", "we were happy", or "we felt satisfied" depending on the context.

Is "we were pleased" formal or informal?

"We were pleased" is generally considered to be neutral to slightly formal. It is suitable for professional communication as well as general use. More informal alternatives exist, such as "we were happy".

What's the difference between "we were pleased" and "we were glad"?

While both express positive feelings, "we were pleased" often implies a sense of satisfaction with a specific outcome or achievement. "We were glad" is a more general expression of happiness. For example, "We were pleased with the increase in sales", versus "We were glad to hear you're feeling better".