were above

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "were above" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a position or status that is higher than something else, often in a comparative context. Example: "The temperatures yesterday were above the average for this time of year."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Both trains involved in the accident were above ground.

The New York Times

But most of the other dishes sampled were above average.

The New York Times

Audience evaluations of "excellent" and "definitely recommended" were above average.

Wikipedia

Hemlines were above the knee.

The New York Times

They were above the chimney.

The New Yorker

(Its shares were above $42 on Thursday).

The New York Times

The results were above analysts' expectations.

The New York Times

Her legs were above her head".

The New York Times

Her favorability ratings were above Obama's.

The Guardian

"The flames were above the window.

The Guardian

I thought we were above things of this nature.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "were above" to compare numerical values, ensure the units are consistent for clarity. For example, "The sales figures were above expectations" is clearer if expectations are also expressed in sales figures.

Common error

Avoid using "were above" when a simple descriptive adjective suffices. For instance, instead of saying "The clouds were above", consider "The clouds were high" if you are only indicating altitude and not making a comparison.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "were above" functions primarily as a comparative indicator, showing that something exceeded a certain level, standard, or position. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is a grammatically correct phrase. Examples show its use in comparing quantities, ranks, and physical locations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

35%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "were above" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to indicate that something exceeds a certain level, standard, or position. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. It's frequently found in news and scientific contexts, denoting comparisons of quantities, ranks, or physical locations. While alternatives like "exceeded" or "were higher than" may suit specific contexts, "were above" remains a widely accepted and understood way to convey superiority or excess. When using this phrase, ensure clear comparisons and avoid redundant usages to maintain clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

were higher than

Directly compares the degree or level of something, emphasizing the comparative difference.

were greater than

A straightforward comparison of numerical or abstract values, indicating a larger magnitude.

exceeded

Indicates surpassing a certain limit or expectation, focusing on the act of going beyond a boundary.

surpassed

Highlights the achievement of going beyond a specific level or standard, often implying excellence.

were superior to

Indicates a higher quality or rank, emphasizing the advantage or dominance over something else.

ranked higher than

Focuses on the relative position in a hierarchy or order, emphasizing the arrangement.

outstripped

Suggests rapidly exceeding or surpassing, often in a competitive or progressive context.

were in excess of

Emphasizes the quantity or amount being greater than a specified value.

towered over

Emphasizes physical height or metaphorical dominance, suggesting a significant difference in scale.

were on top of

Indicates physical or metaphorical placement at the highest point, focusing on control or achievement.

FAQs

How can I use "were above" in a sentence?

Use "were above" to indicate that something is higher in position, rank, or quantity compared to something else. For instance, "The test scores "were above average"" or "The clouds "were higher than" the mountains".

What is a synonym for "were above"?

Synonyms include "exceeded", "were higher than", or "surpassed depending on the context".

Is it correct to say "were above average"?

Yes, "were above average" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to indicate that something is better than the typical or expected standard.

What's the difference between "were above" and "were over"?

"Were above" typically implies a comparison or a higher position/status, while "were over" often indicates a completed action or being physically across from something. For example, "The results "were above expectations"" versus "The meeting "was over" by noon".