we were working

USAGE SUMMARY

"we were working" is correct and usable in written English.
For example, you could use it in the sentence: "We were working diligently on the project when the power went out."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

We were working frantically".

The New Yorker

"We were working in harmony".

The New York Times

We were working for them".

The New York Times

We were working people.

The New Yorker

"Because we were working," Rock said.

The New York Times

We were working to finish our proof.

The New Yorker

In a way, we were working".

Independent

"We were working with very low cost.

The New York Times

The Spaniard added: "We were working hard.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

We're working constantly.

The New York Times

"We are working away.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To provide greater context, follow "we were working" with specific details about the project, goals, or challenges encountered.

Common error

Avoid using "we were working" without specifying the area or context of your work. Instead of saying "We were working," specify "We were working on the new marketing campaign."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we were working" functions as a verb phrase in the past continuous tense. It indicates an ongoing action performed by a group in the past. Ludwig AI validates this by displaying numerous examples of its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

25%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we were working" is a grammatically sound and frequently used verb phrase in the past continuous tense. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usage across various contexts, particularly in news, academic, and formal communications. It effectively describes an ongoing group activity in the past, providing essential context. While broadly applicable, specific attention should be paid to clarity, indicating the nature of the work to avoid vagueness. Related phrases like "we labored" and "we were employed" can add nuance. By following these guidelines, writers can effectively utilize this versatile phrase to convey collaborative efforts and past activities precisely.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we had been working

This implies a longer duration of work leading up to a certain point in time.

we labored

This alternative emphasizes the effort and exertion involved in the work.

we toiled

Similar to 'we labored', this suggests persistent and arduous work.

we were engaged in

This alternative is more formal, highlighting involvement in a particular activity.

we were employed

This focuses on the state of being hired or engaged in work.

we dedicated ourselves

This emphasizes commitment and focus in carrying out a task.

we exerted effort

This stresses the application of energy and resources.

we undertook

This alternative suggests that a task was taken or assumed.

we were busy

This suggests activity and occupation with tasks.

we made efforts

Highlights that an attempt was made but does not guarantee the effort was successful.

FAQs

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

You can use "we were working" to describe a past activity or project you were involved in. For instance, "We were working late to meet the deadline", or "We were working on a solution to the problem".

What are some alternatives to "we were working"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "we labored", "we were employed", or "we had been working".

Is it correct to say "we was working" instead of "we were working"?

No, "we was working" is grammatically incorrect. The correct form is "we were working", as "were" is the past tense plural form of the verb "to be".

What's the difference between "we were working" and "we worked"?

"We were working" implies a continuous action in the past, while "we worked" suggests a completed action or general past activity. For example, "We were working on the project all day" vs. "We worked on the project last year".