were commencing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "were commencing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that an action was beginning in the past, often in a formal or literary context. Example: "The festivities were commencing as the sun began to set over the horizon."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

This study was also before the notions of big data implementations, yet researchers were commencing to identify the machine-dimensions of HCI (Anonymous 2008).

Research and Practice in Technology Enhanced Learning

However the insurer backed off in the spring amid reports that tax inspectors were commencing an audit, which was interpreted by some observers as an attempt by the authorities to derail its fundraising plan.

Forbes

Eventually the pilot informed us that we were commencing our descent in to Bermuda International Airport and that we should heed all directions from the cabin crew.

Huffington Post

Duncans crew, however, thinking that Farenholt and Laffey were commencing an attack on the Japanese warships, increased speed to launch a solitary torpedo attack on Gotō's force without telling Scott what they were doing.

Wikipedia

This past week, as celebratory preparations were commencing in homes throughout the city, thousands of Burbankers and visitors from surrounding communities took a few hours of leave from their kitchens and converged for the Burbank Community YMCA's ninth annual Turkey Trot.

Los Angeles Times

This was a prospective, observational study of patients with drug-naive T2D who were commencing acarbose as a monotherapy.

Cardiovascular Diabetology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Good practice lessons as well results of implementation of these requirements for buildings were commenced.

Procedia Engineering

Twenty sheep were commenced on veno-venous ECMO (VV ECMO).

Intensive Care Medicine Experimental

Un-blinding was done after randomization had been closed, and collation and analysis were commenced.

International Journal of Emergency Medicine

Large projects were commenced.

Wikipedia

Tests were commenced after one hour of habituation.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

While "were commencing" is grammatically correct, consider your audience and the context. More common alternatives like "were beginning" or "were starting" might be more appropriate for informal settings.

Common error

Avoid using "were commencing" in casual conversation or informal writing. It can sound stilted or pretentious. Opt for simpler alternatives.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "were commencing" functions as a verb phrase indicating the initiation of an action in the past. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use in describing events that were in the process of starting. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

56%

News & Media

34%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "were commencing" is a grammatically sound verb phrase used to denote the start of an action or event in the past. While correct, it carries a more formal tone compared to alternatives like "were starting" or "were beginning". As demonstrated by Ludwig, its usage is more prevalent in scientific and news-related contexts. Therefore, writers should consider the audience and context when choosing between "were commencing" and its more common counterparts. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English, but awareness of its formality is key.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

were beginning

A more common and less formal synonym, focusing on the initiation of an action.

were starting

Another common synonym, emphasizing the act of initiating or setting off.

were initiating

Highlights the act of setting something in motion, often with a more formal tone.

were undertaking

Suggests embarking on a task or project, often implying a degree of commitment.

were setting about

Emphasizes the process of preparing to start something, with a sense of purpose.

were getting underway

Implies the start of a process or journey, often with a sense of momentum.

were getting started

A more colloquial version of "were starting", indicating the initial phase of an activity.

were embarking on

Suggests a new and often significant undertaking.

were proceeding with

Highlights the continuation of an action, implying a forward movement.

were moving forward with

Emphasizes progress and advancement in a particular activity or plan.

FAQs

What does "were commencing" mean?

The phrase "were commencing" means "were beginning" or "were starting". It indicates that an action or process was in the initial stages.

When is it appropriate to use "were commencing"?

The phrase "were commencing" is suitable for formal writing, reports, and situations where a more elevated tone is desired. However, in everyday conversation, simpler alternatives like "were starting" or "were beginning" might be more appropriate.

What are some alternatives to "were commencing"?

Some alternatives to "were commencing" include "were starting", "were beginning", "were initiating", and "were undertaking". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired tone.

Is "were commencing" considered formal?

Yes, "were commencing" is generally considered more formal than alternatives like "were starting" or "were beginning". It is often used in academic, professional, or official contexts.