we were stationed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we were stationed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a location where someone was assigned to work, often in a military or official context. Example: "During my time in the military, we were stationed at a base overseas for two years."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

We were stationed in the north of Israel.

The New York Times

"We were stationed together at the same office," Ms. Epstein said.

The New York Times

"We talked and realized we were stationed at the same post, although we were in different units.

The New York Times - Style

When we were stationed near Kairouan, Tunisia, for nine months, we used to enter the town in the dark, everywhere lit by flares, no electricity – a magical sight.

The Guardian - Arts

Rebecca: We applied for a permanent base and asked to be anywhere but like, Mississippi — so, of course, we were stationed in Gulfport, Miss.

The New York Times

But on small posts, like the one at Oberammergau, Germany, where we were stationed for several years in the mid-1950's, a solitary bugler stood in the center of the parade ground and sounded taps without amplification.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

"We're stationed at the Nasa Jet Propulsion Lab to talk about their Curiosity Rover," he said.

The Guardian

"This is where we come to forget why we're stationed here," said Andrey Korivitsky, 28, a legionnaire from Belarus who resembles Timothy McVeigh, the Oklahoma City bomber.

The New York Times

"We are stationed right now in the village of Mayer, which is their next target".

Huffington Post

On this particular mission, run by Panamanians and a few Americans, we are stationed just outside of Panama's third largest city David.

Huffington Post

When I was eight or so and living in Gibraltar (my father was in the army and we were station there), my teacher read us A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens as a pre-Christmas treat.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we were stationed", ensure that the context clearly indicates who "we" refers to and the nature of the assignment or location. Providing specific details enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using incorrect prepositions after "stationed". The correct preposition is typically "in" or "at", depending on whether you're referring to a region or a specific place. For example, use "we were stationed in Germany" or "we were stationed at the airbase".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we were stationed" functions as a declarative statement, indicating the location where a group (represented by "we") was assigned for duty or residence. Ludwig indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and appropriate for use.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we were stationed" is a grammatically sound phrase used to indicate a past assignment or location, as confirmed by Ludwig. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it serves to provide context about where a group was based. While not overly formal, it's essential to use it with clear context and appropriate prepositions ("in" or "at"). Consider alternatives like ""we were assigned"" or ""we were based"" depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we were based

This alternative implies a central location from which operations or activities are conducted.

we were assigned

This alternative emphasizes the act of being officially designated to a specific location or task.

we were located

This alternative simply states the geographical position without necessarily implying official duty.

we were positioned

This alternative suggests a strategic placement, often in a military or tactical context.

we were deployed

This alternative is specific to military contexts, referring to the movement and placement of troops or resources.

we were posted

This alternative is similar to 'assigned' but can also imply a temporary or rotational placement.

we were garrisoned

This alternative indicates assignment to a fortified military post.

we were garrisoned

This alternative indicates assignment to a fortified military post.

we were quartered

This alternative refers to being provided with housing or lodging, often in a military context.

our station was

This alternative focuses on the station itself and its purpose.

FAQs

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

You can use "we were stationed" to indicate where a group of people, often military personnel, were assigned to work or live. For example, "We were stationed in Japan for three years".

What's a synonym for "we were stationed"?

Synonyms for "we were stationed" include "we were assigned", "we were based", or "we were deployed", depending on the specific context.

Is it more appropriate to say "we were stationed at" or "we were stationed in"?

Use "we were stationed at" for specific locations like a base or post, and "we were stationed in" for broader regions like a country or city. For instance, "We were stationed at the naval base" versus "We were stationed in San Diego".

What's the difference between "we were stationed" and ""we were deployed""?

"We were stationed" typically refers to a longer-term assignment at a specific location, while ""we were deployed"" often implies a temporary movement for a specific mission or operation.