were detailed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "were detailed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to something that has been explained or described in depth in the past. Example: "The findings of the research were detailed in the final report, highlighting key insights and recommendations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

The conversations were detailed.

The New York Times - Sports

Some incidents were detailed.

The Guardian

His domestic staffing arrangements were detailed with immense charm.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But the published programmes were detailed and far more prescriptive.

The Guardian

These assemblages were detailed but stripped of feverish excess.

The New Yorker

The investments were detailed last month in the audit.

The New York Times

The findings were detailed in two studies released last month.

The New York Times - Health

They claimed that these memories were detailed and almost indelible.

The New Yorker

Extra police were detailed to guard the building.

The New Yorker

The ensemble's comments were detailed and technical, and often humorous.

The New York Times - Arts

Her answers to difficult policy questions were detailed and in-depth.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "were detailed", ensure that the context clearly indicates what information was elaborated upon and where it was presented. For example, "The findings were detailed in the appendix of the report" provides clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "were detailed" excessively in passive constructions. Whenever possible, rephrase to use active voice for more direct and engaging writing. For example, instead of "The plans were detailed by the architect", write "The architect detailed the plans".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "were detailed" functions as a passive verb phrase, indicating that something has been thoroughly explained or described. This usage aligns with Ludwig's examples, showcasing its role in conveying the comprehensive presentation of information.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

39%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "were detailed" is a grammatically correct and frequently used passive verb phrase that indicates a thorough explanation or description. Ludwig confirms this with numerous examples from diverse sources, primarily in news, media, and scientific domains. While versatile, it's essential to consider active voice alternatives for more direct communication. Avoiding overuse and ensuring clarity in context will maximize its effectiveness in your writing. The phrase serves to inform that information has been presented with depth and completeness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

were thoroughly described

Directly conveys the idea of a comprehensive and exhaustive description.

were specified

Emphasizes the act of stating something explicitly and in detail.

were elaborated

Highlights the process of adding more information and expanding on existing details.

were outlined

Focuses on providing a summary or the main points of something.

were delineated

Suggests a clear and precise description or demarcation.

were itemized

Implies a listing of individual details or components.

were enumerated

Focuses on counting and listing details one by one.

were cataloged

Indicates a systematic recording and listing of details.

were recounted

Highlights the act of narrating or telling a story with details.

were narrated

Similar to recounted, emphasizing a sequential telling of events with specifics.

FAQs

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

You can use "were detailed" to indicate that specific information was thoroughly explained or described. For example, "The procedures were detailed in the manual" or "The events were detailed in his memoir".

What are some alternatives to "were detailed"?

You can use alternatives such as "were specified", "were outlined", or "were elaborated" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

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

While "were detailed" is grammatically correct, using the active voice can often make your writing more direct and engaging. For instance, instead of "The results were detailed in the study", consider "The study detailed the results".

What's the difference between "were detailed" and "were summarized"?

"Were detailed" implies a thorough and comprehensive explanation, while "were summarized" suggests a brief overview of the key points. If you need a comprehensive view, use "were detailed", otherwise, if a shorter explanation is appropriate, use "were summarized".