were chiefly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "were chiefly" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something was primarily or mainly the case in the past. Example: "The findings of the study were chiefly based on data collected from urban areas."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Motifs were chiefly geometric.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Moas were chiefly browsers and grazers.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Mr Yanagisawa's successors were chiefly to blame.

The Economist

Small plants requiring shallow soil depths were chiefly selected.

The New York Times

But the Maoists' thugs were chiefly to blame.

The Economist

Alberti's weapons were chiefly words, but he also acquired a practical understanding of the arts.

The New York Times - Books

Before the eighteen-thirties, newspapers cost six cents and were chiefly sponsored by political parties.

The New Yorker

His picture of Theseus adorned the Capitol in Rome; other works were chiefly mythological groups.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But you probably didn't know that they were chiefly the creation of one artist, Al Jarnow.

The New York Times

Regular wickets were chiefly responsible as Durham duo Plunkett and Collingwood profited.

Independent

NEW DELHI — The protesters were chiefly women, but instead of placards, they brought empty pots.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "were chiefly", ensure that the context clearly indicates what the primary element or aspect is, providing clarity and avoiding ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "were chiefly" when the elements being described are only slightly more prevalent than others; reserve it for situations where the dominance is clear and substantial.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "were chiefly" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb. According to Ludwig AI, it indicates the primary or main characteristic, action, or attribute associated with the subject.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Encyclopedias

23%

Science

23%

Less common in

Wiki

12%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "were chiefly" serves to highlight the primary or most significant aspect of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a grammatically correct and versatile phrase, suitable for various contexts ranging from news and encyclopedias to scientific writing. Alternative phrases such as "were mainly" or "were primarily" can be used depending on the specific nuance desired. When using "were chiefly", ensure the context clearly identifies the dominant element to maintain clarity. Avoiding its use in situations where no clear dominance exist ensures proper usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

were mainly

Emphasizes the principal component but may imply a slightly larger proportion than "were chiefly".

were primarily

Indicates the foremost or most important aspect, offering a slightly stronger emphasis than "were chiefly".

were principally

A more formal alternative, stressing the main or fundamental character.

were largely

Suggests that something consisted of a significant portion, but not necessarily the absolute majority.

were mostly

Similar to "were mainly", focusing on the majority but potentially less formal.

were predominantly

Highlights the prevalence of something, indicating a dominant presence.

were for the most part

Expresses a general tendency or prevailing condition.

were in the main

A more idiomatic and slightly less common way of saying "were mainly".

were on the whole

Implies a general overview or summary, highlighting a predominant aspect.

were to a great extent

Indicates a significant degree or proportion, often implying influence or effect.

FAQs

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

You can use "were chiefly" to indicate that something was primarily or mainly something else. For example, "The concerns "were chiefly" about the cost" suggests the cost was the main concern.

What are some alternatives to using "were chiefly"?

Alternatives to "were chiefly" include "were mainly", "were primarily", or "were principally" depending on the desired level of formality and emphasis.

Is there a difference between using "were chiefly" and "were mainly"?

While both indicate the main component, "were chiefly" can suggest a more definitive or significant primary aspect, whereas "were mainly" might imply a less pronounced dominance.

In what contexts is it most appropriate to use "were chiefly"?

"Were chiefly" is suitable in formal writing and when describing the primary attribute or cause. It fits well in contexts such as scientific reports, news articles, and encyclopedic entries.