were characterized by

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "were characterized by" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is used to indicate that something is defined or described by certain qualities or features. For example: "The paintings of Salvador Dali were characterized by their surreal, dream-like qualities."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Meanwhile, feudal systems were characterized by redistribution.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Many visits were characterized by long stretches of silence.

The New Yorker

Her later paintings were characterized by stark white backgrounds.

The New York Times

The materials were characterized by FTIR spectroscopy.

Materials Science and Engineering: C

Dermal cells were characterized by flow cytometry.

Experimental Cell Research

The conjugates were characterized by MALDI-TOF.

Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications

The lesions were characterized by axonal degeneration.

Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine

The films were characterized by infrared spectroscopy.

Surface and Coatings Technology

The corrosion properties were characterized by voltammetry.

Electrochimica Acta

The obtained surfaces were characterized by microscopy.

Composite Structures

Products were characterized by elemental analysis.

Polymer

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "were characterized by" to clearly and objectively describe the notable qualities or features of a subject. Ensure the characteristics you mention are well-supported by evidence or examples.

Common error

Avoid using vague or overly abstract characteristics without providing concrete examples. Instead of saying something "was characterized by complexity", specify what made it complex.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "were characterized by" functions as a descriptive predicate in passive voice, highlighting the attributes or qualities that defined a subject in the past. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. Examples show its use in describing historical periods, scientific materials, and artistic styles.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

62%

News & Media

26%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "were characterized by" is a grammatically sound and widely used construct to describe past attributes, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Predominantly found in scientific and news contexts, it objectively highlights the defining qualities of a subject. When using this phrase, clarity and specific examples are crucial to avoid vagueness. Alternatives like "were defined by" or "were marked by" can provide nuanced variations. Overall, it's a reliable phrase for precise and informative writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

were defined by

Indicates a clearer, more explicit definition rather than a general attribute.

were distinguished by

Highlights unique differences or qualities setting something apart.

were marked by

Emphasizes prominent or noticeable features.

were typified by

Suggests something is a typical example or representative of a larger category.

were known for

Focuses on recognized or famous attributes.

were notable for

Highlights significant or important features.

were featured by

Indicates prominent inclusion or showcasing of certain elements.

were exemplified by

Shows that something serves as a clear example of a particular quality.

were represented by

Indicates that something serves as a symbol or instance of something else.

were distinguished with

Highlights an added element that makes something unique.

FAQs

How can I use "were characterized by" in a sentence?

Use "were characterized by" to describe the defining features or qualities of something in the past. For example, "The 1920s "were characterized by" significant social and cultural changes".

What phrases are similar to "were characterized by"?

Alternatives include "were defined by", "were marked by", and "were known for". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use active or passive voice with "were characterized by"?

The phrase "were characterized by" is inherently passive. While active voice is often preferred for directness, passive voice can be useful when the subject being described is more important than the agent causing the characteristic.

What's the difference between "were characterized by" and "are characterized by"?

"Were characterized by" refers to past qualities, while "are characterized by" describes present qualities. Use "were" when discussing historical features and "are" for current or ongoing characteristics.