were isolated

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "were isolated" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where subjects or entities were separated or set apart from others in the past. Example: "During the experiment, the samples were isolated to prevent contamination from external factors."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

IECs were isolated as described elsewhere [23].

Plosone

Both were isolated.

The Guardian - Books

Players were isolated.

The Guardian - Sport

"We were isolated from connections".

The New York Times - Arts

He said they were isolated.

The New York Times

The new suburbanites were isolated.

The New York Times

Among those, there were isolated success stories.

The Economist

These accounts were isolated and unsubstantiated.

The Economist

Such bursts of optimism were isolated.

The New York Times

On this program, they were isolated gems.

The New York Times - Arts

But he said the incidents were isolated.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "were isolated" in scientific writing, clearly specify the method of isolation to ensure reproducibility.

Common error

Avoid using "were isolated" when the active voice is more appropriate and direct. For example, instead of "The scientists were isolated the compound", use "The scientists isolated the compound".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "were isolated" functions as a passive verb phrase. It indicates that the subject of the sentence underwent the action of being separated or set apart. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

68%

News & Media

28%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "were isolated" is a common and grammatically sound passive verb phrase used to describe the act of separating or detaching something. As evidenced by Ludwig, it appears frequently in scientific and news contexts, indicating its versatility. While it maintains a neutral to formal tone, its usage is widespread. Remember to specify the method of isolation in scientific writing for clarity. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's correctness and usability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

were separated

Focuses on the act of dividing or setting things apart from each other.

were set apart

Highlights the distinction of being different or special.

were detached

Emphasizes the removal or disconnection from something larger or more connected.

were kept separate

Simple alternative that emphasizes maintaining distinct entities.

were kept apart

Stresses the act of maintaining distance between entities.

were segregated

Highlights the enforced separation of groups or individuals, often based on specific criteria.

were quarantined

Specifically refers to isolation to prevent the spread of disease.

were sectioned off

Refers to the division of something into separate sections.

were secluded

Implies being kept apart from society or general activity.

were cordoned off

Describes an area being blocked off to prevent access.

FAQs

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

The phrase "were isolated" indicates that something or someone was separated from others. For example, "The cells were isolated from the tissue sample" or "The villagers were isolated due to the flood".

What phrases are similar to "were isolated"?

Similar phrases include "were separated", "were detached", and "were quarantined", depending on the specific context.

In what contexts is "were isolated" commonly used?

"Were isolated" is frequently used in scientific research to describe the separation of substances or cells, and in general contexts to describe people or communities being cut off from others.

Is "were isolated" formal or informal language?

"Were isolated" is appropriate for both formal and informal writing. However, in highly formal contexts, consider alternatives like "were segregated" for enhanced precision.