were recognized

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "were recognized" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to individuals or entities that have received acknowledgment or validation for their actions, achievements, or contributions in the past. Example: "The scientists were recognized for their groundbreaking research in renewable energy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Both men were recognized.

The New Yorker

My accomplishments were recognized.

Harvard Business Review

They were recognized equivalents.

Cornell University

Many were recognized to be periodic.

Encyclopedia Britannica

These problems were recognized years before Katrina.

The New York Times

Grass leaves were recognized accurately.

Biosystems Engineering

His contributions were recognized with numerous awards.

The New York Times

PRKCD+-neurons were recognized by antibody staining.

Nature

In addition, Senior Marshals were recognized.

Columbia University

All of the regimes were recognized correctly.

Measurement

Force exertions were recognized with 100% accuracy.

Smart Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "were recognized" to highlight that actions or contributions have received formal or public acknowledgement. This phrasing often adds a layer of validation or significance to the statement.

Common error

Ensure the context clearly indicates who did the recognizing. Without a clear subject, the sentence can lack clarity. For example, instead of "The issues were recognized", specify "The issues were recognized by the committee."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "were recognized" functions as a passive verb phrase, indicating that the subject of the sentence received acknowledgment or validation. As Ludwig AI shows, the phrase is commonly used to highlight that something or someone was acknowledged.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Academia

33%

Science

32%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "were recognized" is a common and grammatically correct passive verb phrase used to indicate that someone or something has received acknowledgment or validation. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent usage across various contexts, particularly in news and media, academia, and science. While the phrase is generally neutral, it leans towards formality. To maximize clarity, always specify the agent that did the recognizing. Alternatives include "were acknowledged", "were identified", and "were honored". Remember to tailor your choice based on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

were acknowledged

Focuses on the act of admitting or declaring something to be true or real.

were identified

Emphasizes the act of establishing or indicating who or what someone or something is.

were accredited

Highlights the official recognition or authorization of someone or something.

were honored

Conveys the act of showing respect and admiration.

were celebrated

Focuses on publicly acknowledging and enjoying a special day or event.

were distinguished

Highlights the act of recognizing someone or something as different or special.

were validated

Stresses the act of proving or demonstrating that something is valid or correct.

were appreciated

Conveys gratitude and recognition for someone's actions or qualities.

were understood

Focuses on the comprehension and acceptance of something.

were noticed

Emphasizes that something or someone was observed or paid attention to.

FAQs

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

The phrase "were recognized" indicates that something or someone received acknowledgment. For example, "The team's efforts "were recognized" with an award."

What are some alternatives to "were recognized"?

You can use alternatives like "were acknowledged", "were honored", or "were validated" depending on the context.

Is it better to use active or passive voice when using "were recognized"?

While "were recognized" is in the passive voice, the choice depends on emphasis. If the focus is on the entity being recognized, passive voice is appropriate. If the focus is on the recognizer, active voice (e.g., "The committee recognized... ") is better.

What's the difference between "were recognized" and "were identified"?

"Were recognized" implies acknowledgment or validation, while "were identified" suggests discovering or establishing something's existence or nature. For example, "The problems "were identified" during the audit" versus "The contributions "were recognized" at the ceremony".