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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
were reacted
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "were reacted" is not correct in standard written English.
It is not a usable construction as it does not convey a clear meaning in the context of reactions. Example: "The chemicals were reacted together to form a new compound."
⚠ May contain grammatical issues
Science
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
These were reacted with cyanide.
Subsequently, the precursors were reacted with ammonia under hydrothermal conditions.
Science
The prepolymers were reacted overnight; the multi-block copolymers were reacted only 80 min to minimize transetherification.
Science
Prepared Mannich bases were reacted with P2S5 to prepare phosphosulphurized Mannich bases.
After oxidation, these sulfur compounds were reacted to sulfones, and then removed partly after extraction.
The A549 cells were reacted with biotinylated EpCAM antibody (anti-human CD326-Ab, eBioscience, Inc.
Science
Zr-catalysts (33 35) were reacted with B(C6F5 3 to synthesize zwitterionic complexes (Scheme 16).
Briefly, N-BOC-Serinol, HDI, and urea were reacted for 7 days at 90 °C.
Science
Samples were reacted by individual acid addition (99%H3PO4at73 73 °C).
The minerals were reacted with As III) at pH 4.5, 7.2, and 9.0.
Science
The samples were reacted with DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate) in DMSO solution.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Instead of "were reacted", use more precise language describing the specific chemical process, such as "were combined", "were mixed", or "underwent a reaction" to ensure clarity and grammatical correctness.
Common error
Avoid using passive voice constructions like "were reacted" when active voice would be clearer and more direct. For instance, instead of "The chemicals were reacted", write "The scientists reacted the chemicals" to clearly indicate the actors and action.
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
2.8/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "were reacted" functions as a passive verb construction, typically used to describe chemical processes. However, it's often considered grammatically awkward and can lack clarity. As Ludwig AI points out, more precise language is preferred.
Frequent in
Science
100%
Less common in
News & Media
0%
Formal & Business
0%
Wiki
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, while the phrase "were reacted" appears in a number of examples, especially within scientific literature, Ludwig AI indicates it is generally considered grammatically incorrect. It functions as a passive construction to denote substances undergoing a chemical process, but often lacks the precision required in formal writing. For clarity and grammatical correctness, alternative phrases such as "underwent a reaction", "were combined", or "reacted with" are preferable. Pay close attention to use active voice whenever possible and make sure your writing is clear and exact.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
underwent a reaction
Replaces the passive voice with an active construction.
were made to react
Adds emphasis on the action causing the reaction.
participated in a reaction
Highlights the involvement of substances in a chemical process.
were subjected to reaction
Focuses on the process imposed upon the substances.
experienced a chemical change
Emphasizes the chemical transformation.
were transformed chemically
Highlights the transformation aspect of the reaction.
were chemically processed
Emphasizes the chemical treatment.
were treated with reactants
Focuses on the interaction with reactants.
reacted chemically
Simple and direct expression.
were synthesized
Specific to creation of a substance through reaction.
FAQs
How can I rephrase "were reacted" to be more grammatically sound?
Consider using active voice or more descriptive passive constructions. Some alternatives include "underwent a reaction", "were combined", or "were mixed" depending on the intended meaning.
Is "were reacted" considered correct English?
While sometimes used, "were reacted" is generally considered grammatically awkward. It's better to use more precise and active language or alternative passive constructions.
What is the difference between "were reacted" and "reacted with"?
"Were reacted" is a passive construction that can be unclear, while "reacted with" specifies what the subject interacted with, providing more clarity. For example, "The chemicals reacted with acid" is clearer than "The chemicals were reacted."
When is it acceptable to use "were reacted" in scientific writing?
It's generally better to avoid "were reacted" in scientific writing. Precise language is important in scientific context. Instead of "were reacted", you can use alternatives such as "were mixed" or "were combined".
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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
2.8/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested