we were referring

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we were referring" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to clarify or specify what you or someone else was talking about in a previous conversation or text. Example: "In our last meeting, we were referring to the new marketing strategy that will be implemented next quarter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

We were referring to his brother, Chris.

The Guardian - Film

Here we were referring to Ms. Asawa, the sculptor, not one of her works.

The New York Times

When Braungart and I first used the term "upcycling", we were referring to the improvement of product quality from one cycle of use to the next.

The Guardian

By the time we found an ATM, we were referring to Bir Tawil as so much more than a conceptual exposition.

The Guardian

We were referring of course to not just any exam, but to the Big One — the Medical College Admission Test, or MCAT, the standardized cognitive assessment exam that measures mastery of the premedical curriculum.

The New York Times - Health

When we introduced to you "smart windows" from Soladigm in August of 2010, we were referring to "tunable" windows that ran an electric current to adjust the amount of light that was let in.

MIT Technology Review

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

They couldn't understand who this "we" was referring to.

The Guardian

We were referred to the court.

The Guardian

Another three months and we were referred a child.

The Guardian - Opinion

"We were referred to by our numbers, and of course we couldn't leave.

The Guardian

For a brief moment, we were referred to as a behemoth or an 800-pound gorilla.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure the reference is clear and direct to avoid confusion. If necessary, briefly restate the original subject before using "we were referring".

Common error

Avoid using "we were referring" without clearly establishing what "we" refers to. Ensure the subject of the reference is easily identifiable by the reader to prevent misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we were referring" functions as a clarifying statement, providing context or specifying a previously mentioned subject. As seen in the Ludwig examples, it's used to ensure understanding and prevent misinterpretations of prior communication.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

32%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we were referring" is a useful phrase to clarify previously mentioned topics, ensuring clear communication. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and commonly used in various contexts, including News & Media and Science. To improve your writing, use this phrase to provide context and avoid ambiguity. Common errors include failing to clearly establish the subject of the reference. Alternatives include "we meant" or "we alluded to", depending on the specific nuances you want to convey. By using "we were referring" correctly, you enhance the clarity and precision of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we meant

More concise way of indicating the intended meaning.

we alluded to

Suggests a more indirect or suggestive reference.

we were alluding to

Similar to "we alluded to", but emphasizing the ongoing nature of the reference at the time.

we were alluding to

Similar to "we alluded to", but in a continuous tense.

we spoke of

Indicates a verbal discussion about the topic.

we were speaking of

Similar to "we spoke of", highlighting the continuous aspect of the conversation.

we had in mind

Focuses on the intended idea or concept.

what we had in mind

Emphasizes that something was premeditated or thought of ahead of time.

we had reference to

Formal way of saying that a previous reference was made.

we referenced

A more direct way of stating that a specific reference was made.

FAQs

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

You can use "we were referring" to clarify what was previously mentioned. For example, "In our email, "we were referring" to the document attached in the previous message."

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

Alternatives include "we meant", "we alluded to", or "we spoke of", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "we were referring"?

It's appropriate when you need to clarify or specify something that was previously discussed or mentioned, especially when there might be confusion about what was meant.

What is the difference between "we were referring to" and "we referenced"?

"We were referring to" implies a less formal, ongoing discussion, while "we referenced" suggests a more direct and specific citation or mention.