were finite

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "were finite" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing limits, boundaries, or the concept of finiteness in various subjects such as mathematics, philosophy, or science. Example: "In the early stages of the universe, the resources available to life were finite, leading to competition among species."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

But they were finite length filters, we could say.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

That's true, but some of those series also were finite.

The New York Times

It had the military resources to stay, but its spiritual and political resources were finite.

The New Yorker

With many 20th-century masters aging or dying, it became clear that supplies of their best work were finite.

The New York Times - Arts

Satellites routinely surveyed the Soviet Union, assuring American analysts that Soviet military assets were finite, known and at rest.

The New York Times - Books

Men cared about their children and grandchildren, he reasoned, but concerns for the future were finite.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

Beauty is finite.

The New Yorker

Season one was finite".

Independent

"These are finite resources.

The Economist

But time is finite.

The New York Times

"The opportunities are finite".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "were finite", ensure the context clearly establishes what is being limited. For example, specify "resources were finite" rather than just stating "they were finite."

Common error

Avoid using "were finite" without specifying what is being limited. Saying "things were finite" lacks clarity. Instead, specify the noun, such as "opportunities were finite" or "supplies were finite".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "were finite" primarily functions as a predicative adjective phrase. It describes the state or condition of a noun, indicating that it has a limit or end. Ludwig examples illustrate this use in various contexts, such as resources or time.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

15%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "were finite" is a grammatically correct and neutrally registered phrase used to describe that something has a limit. As confirmed by Ludwig, it functions as a predicative adjective phrase, often found in News & Media, Science and Academic contexts, to convey concepts of limitation or scarcity. To use it effectively, always specify what noun is being limited to avoid vagueness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

were limited

Uses a direct synonym for "finite", focusing on restriction in quantity or scope.

were not infinite

Expresses the opposite of infinity, directly stating the absence of endlessness.

were bounded

Emphasizes the existence of a boundary or limit that defines the extent.

had limits

Highlights the existence of restrictions without necessarily specifying the degree.

were exhaustible

Focuses on the potential for depletion or complete use, implying a finite nature.

were defined

Emphasizes the clarity and precision of the limits, suggesting a clear endpoint.

were terminable

Indicates the possibility of being brought to an end or conclusion.

were quantifiable

Highlights the ability to measure or count, implying a defined and finite quantity.

were measurable

Similar to "quantifiable", focusing on the possibility of being assessed or determined.

were discrete

Implies being individually separate and distinct, contributing to a finite whole.

FAQs

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

You can use "were finite" to describe resources, time, or other entities that have a limited quantity or duration. For example: "The resources available to the project "were finite", so we had to prioritize tasks carefully."

What are some alternatives to saying "were finite"?

Alternatives include "were limited", "had limits", or "were not infinite". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "was finite" instead of "were finite"?

No, use "was finite" with singular nouns (e.g., "time was finite"). Use "were finite" with plural nouns (e.g., "resources were finite").

What's the difference between "were finite" and "were exhausted"?

"Were finite" indicates that something has a limit or end. "Were exhausted" implies that something has been completely used up. "The supplies "were finite"" means the supplies had a limited amount. "The supplies "were exhausted"" means there were no supplies left.