were applied

USAGE SUMMARY

'were applied' is grammatically correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to an action that happened in the past. Example: The latest safety protocols were applied to the construction site.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Three-dimensional periodic boundary conditions were applied.

Nature

No language or date restrictions were applied.

Nature

Heat pulses were applied during this stage.

Nature

neural networks were applied.

Energy Conversion and Management

Regression models were applied.

Personality and Individual Differences

Validation procedures were applied.

CATENA

Surveylogistic regressions were applied.

Psychiatry Research

The wasps were "applied" every few weeks.

Cornell University

Descriptive statistics were applied.

International Journal of Emergency Medicine

Twenty steps were applied.

International Journal of Energy and Environmental Engineering

Handcuffs and leg restraints were applied.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "were applied", ensure that the subject clearly indicates what is being applied and to what. This enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "were applied" with a vague or unclear subject. Always specify what exactly was applied to prevent confusion. For example, instead of 'Methods were applied', specify 'Statistical methods were applied'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "were applied" functions as the passive voice of the verb 'apply'. It indicates that an action was performed on a subject, rather than the subject performing the action. Ludwig shows the phrase frequently in scientific contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

75%

Academia

15%

News & Media

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "were applied" is a grammatically sound and frequently used passive verb phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig. It primarily functions to describe the use of methods, techniques, or procedures, particularly in scientific, academic, and news-related contexts. Its formal tone and passive construction contribute to objectivity in writing. As Ludwig's examples show, while versatile, it's crucial to ensure clarity by specifying what exactly was applied and to what. Alternatives like "were utilized" or ""were implemented"" can add nuance depending on the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

were implemented

Focuses more on the execution or enactment of a plan or system.

were put into practice

Emphasizes the transition from theory to practical application.

were utilized

Emphasizes the use of something, often resources or methods, for a specific purpose.

were employed

Similar to 'utilized', but can also refer to the engagement of people or resources.

were enforced

Highlights the imposition of rules or regulations.

were executed

Implies a more formal or structured implementation, often in a legal or procedural context.

were administered

Suggests a controlled or managed application, often in medical or bureaucratic settings.

were brought into play

Suggests the introduction or activation of something in a particular situation.

were brought to bear

More idiomatic, suggesting a forceful or influential application of something.

were set in motion

Implies the initiation of a process or series of actions.

FAQs

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

Use "were applied" when describing actions taken in the past. For example: 'Stringent safety measures "were implemented", and standard protocols "were applied" to ensure the project's success'.

What is a good alternative to "were applied"?

Alternatives include "were utilized", ""were implemented"", or "were enforced", depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "were applied" or "was applied"?

"Were applied" is correct for plural subjects, while "was applied" is for singular subjects. For instance, 'The principles were applied', but 'The method was applied'.

What's the difference between "were applied" and "were applicable"?

"Were applied" indicates an action that has been taken, while "were applicable" suggests that something could be or is relevant. Example: 'The rules "were applied" to the situation' versus 'The rules "were applicable" but not used'.