Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
were obtained at
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "were obtained at" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate the location, time, or source from which something was acquired or gathered. Example: "The data for this study were obtained at various research institutions across the country."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
Alternative expressions(6)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
Various achievements were obtained at this stage.
These were obtained at different incident angles.
Clear images were obtained at high magnification.
Science
Higher current efficiencies were obtained at BDD.
Science
Magnesium levels were obtained at the time of testing.
Good matching and tuning were obtained at both resonance frequencies.
Various 3D micropatterned features were obtained at the micron level.
Detection limits were obtained at the ng mL−1.
Science
These were obtained at a visually controlled, constant clenching level.
Science
Good performance data were obtained at the optimized conditions.
Science
Clear hysteresis loops were obtained at these temperatures.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "were obtained at" to link specific findings directly to the time, location, or circumstance of their acquisition, creating a clear cause-and-effect relationship.
Common error
Avoid overuse of passive voice when using "were obtained at". Instead of stating "Results were obtained at the lab", consider "Researchers obtained results at the lab" for a more direct and engaging narrative. When you do need to use the passive form, make sure you do not omit the responsible/concerned party to make the statement vague.
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "were obtained at" functions as part of a passive verb phrase, indicating that something was acquired, achieved, or derived from a specific location, time, or condition. As Ludwig AI suggests, it is used to describe how results, data, or information came to be.
Frequent in
Science
100%
Less common in
News & Media
0%
Formal & Business
0%
Academia
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "were obtained at" is a grammatically sound and very common expression, predominantly used in scientific and technical contexts. As Ludwig AI points out, it serves to specify the conditions under which data, results, or information were acquired, emphasizing clarity and reproducibility. While it's generally used in passive voice, active voice constructions can sometimes offer a more direct writing style. Related phrases like "were acquired from" or "were measured at" can provide nuanced alternatives depending on the intended meaning. Overall, understanding its function and context is crucial for effective and precise communication in formal and scientific writing.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
were acquired from
Focuses on the source from which something was gained, shifting emphasis from the 'at' to a broader source.
were derived from
Emphasizes the origin or process by which something was obtained, often implying a transformation or calculation.
were measured at
Specifically relates to quantifiable data that has been gauged or assessed at a certain point or condition.
were recorded during
Highlights the timing of the data acquisition, often used when referring to events or processes over a period.
were determined under
Indicates the conditions or circumstances under which something was ascertained or established.
were generated in
Focuses on the creation or production of something within a specific environment or context.
were ascertained during
Focuses on discovering something through investigation over time.
were accessed through
Emphasizes the means by which something was obtained, often referring to systems or interfaces.
were gathered from
Highlights the collection process from various sources.
were extracted using
Focuses on the specific methods used to derive the results.
FAQs
How can I rephrase "were obtained at" for clarity?
Alternatives include "were acquired from", "were measured at", or "were derived from", depending on the specific context you want to emphasize.
Is it better to use active or passive voice with "were obtained at"?
While "were obtained at" is grammatically correct in passive voice, using the active voice (e.g., "researchers obtained data at") can make your writing more direct and engaging. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the action or the actor.
What is the difference between "were obtained at" and "were collected from"?
"Were obtained at" typically refers to a specific location, time, or condition under which something was acquired. "Were collected from", on the other hand, emphasizes the source or origin from which something was gathered, often implying a process of compilation.
How to use "were obtained at" in a research paper?
In a research paper, use "were obtained at" to precisely specify the experimental conditions or settings under which your data or results were acquired. For example, "Measurements "were obtained at" room temperature" provides crucial context for reproducibility and interpretation.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested