we were tipped off

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we were tipped off" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that someone received a warning or information about something, often in a context involving a secret or confidential matter. Example: "We were tipped off about the upcoming investigation, allowing us to prepare in advance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

We were tipped off on the acquisition by a reader.

TechCrunch

Well, we were tipped off about this on the 3rd.

TechCrunch

We were tipped off about her departure a bit before the whole Amazon making a $13.7B bid for Whole Foods thing went down.

TechCrunch

We were tipped off to the service by some of the people working on the project, and Google has confirmed some of the details.

TechCrunch

We were tipped off to changes because of a tweet claiming AOL would be shutting down MapQuest's internal mapping capabilities and switching to Mapbox.

TechCrunch

We were tipped off to the AMA Our Story, and Snapchat confirms to me that it was paid by Samsung for the promotion.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

The Russians, who were tipped off by Boudreau!

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The authorities said they were tipped off by an anonymous informant.

BBC

Authorities were tipped off to the body's location last week.

Huffington Post

Police said they were tipped off by residents.

Los Angeles Times

The rebels say they were tipped off and were lying in wait when IS attacked.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we were tipped off" when you want to emphasize that you received information discreetly or confidentially, often from a source who wishes to remain anonymous.

Common error

Avoid using "we were tipped off" without a clear understanding of the source's reliability. Vague or unsubstantiated tips can lead to inaccurate reporting or misinformed decisions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we were tipped off" functions as a reporting verb construction, indicating how a piece of information was acquired. It signifies receiving information discreetly, often from a confidential source. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Academia

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we were tipped off" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase, particularly in news and media, to indicate the receipt of confidential or discreet information. As Ludwig AI points out, its frequency is high enough to be considered standard usage. While versatile, it's best suited for contexts where the source and nature of the information are relevant. When seeking alternatives, consider the context and formality required, opting for phrases like "we received inside information" or "we were alerted" for more professional settings. Remember that clearly attributing sources and avoiding unsubstantiated claims are crucial for responsible writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we received a tip-off

Uses the noun form of "tip off", emphasizing the act of providing information.

we received inside information

Implies receiving confidential information from someone within an organization.

we were given a heads-up

Informal way to say we were warned or informed in advance.

we were alerted

Suggests a warning or notification about something, often a potential problem.

we had advance notice

Highlights the fact that the information was received before an event occurred.

we were forewarned

Emphasizes being warned in advance about a potential danger or difficulty.

we were clued in

Suggests being given secret or exclusive information to understand a situation.

we got wind of

Indicates hearing about something secret or confidential, often informally.

we discovered in advance

Focuses on the act of finding information before it becomes widely known.

we learned through the grapevine

Suggests acquiring information through informal channels or rumors.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "we were tipped off" in a professional context?

In a more formal setting, you can use phrases such as "we received inside information", "we were alerted", or "we received advance notice" to maintain a professional tone.

Is "we were tipped off" appropriate for academic writing?

While grammatically correct, "we were tipped off" might be considered informal for academic writing. Consider using more formal alternatives like "we were informed" or "it was brought to our attention" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "we were tipped off" and "we found out"?

"We were tipped off" implies receiving information discreetly or confidentially, often from an anonymous source. "We found out" is a more general term that simply means discovering information, without specifying how or from whom.

When is it appropriate to use "we were tipped off" in a sentence?

Use "we were tipped off" when you want to convey that you received confidential or advance information about something, particularly when the source of that information is important or relevant to the context.