were supplemented by

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "were supplemented by" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something was added to or enhanced by additional elements or contributions. Example: "The research findings were supplemented by data collected from various sources, providing a more comprehensive analysis."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The interviews were supplemented by documentary materials.

The New York Times

Opera house performances were supplemented by spectacular productions in circus arenas and sports centres.

The Guardian

Financial deficiencies also were supplemented by trading with China.

Encyclopedia Britannica

At home, offerings were supplemented by prayers for marital felicity.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Bale's goals were supplemented by two from Sam Vokes and a Harry Wilson effort on his 21st birthday.

The Guardian - Sport

When in 1935 Cameron's work took them to London, the Oxford friends were supplemented by London friends.

The Guardian - Books

Lofty rooms for formal receptions, the "appartements de parade", were supplemented by intimate rooms for informal relaxation, "appartements de commodité".

The Guardian - Arts

They were supplemented by five Norwegians, two Dutchmen, two Swedes and, improbably, just one American, Jay Moore.

The Guardian - Sport

Mr. Netanyahu appointed a new chief negotiator, and the Egyptian mediation efforts were supplemented by German mediation.

The New York Times

The porters' wages were supplemented by tips, and at times they threatened to strike if tips did not improve.

The New York Times

Later these coins were supplemented by quantities of lightweight imitation halfpence, made principally in Birmingham, Eng.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "were supplemented by", ensure that the added elements genuinely enhance or complete the original subject. Avoid using it simply to list additional items without a clear connection.

Common error

Avoid phrasing sentences where it's unclear what is supplementing what. Ensure the subject being supplemented is clearly identified, and the additions are explicitly linked to it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "were supplemented by" functions as a passive construction indicating that something has been added to or enhanced by something else. This construction is frequently used to describe how initial or primary elements are enhanced or completed by additional information, resources, or actions, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

37%

News & Media

26%

Wiki

18%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "were supplemented by" is a versatile passive construction used to express that something has been enhanced or completed through the addition of other elements. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used. It is particularly common in scientific and news contexts, suggesting a register that leans towards neutral to formal. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity in what is being supplemented and how the additions enhance the original subject. Consider alternatives like "were augmented by" or "were enhanced by" to fine-tune the meaning as needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

were augmented by

Emphasizes an increase or enlargement, suggesting that something was made greater by the addition.

were enhanced by

Highlights the improvement or betterment resulting from the addition.

were complemented by

Suggests that the addition completed or perfected the original, filling a need or gap.

were reinforced by

Indicates that the addition strengthened or supported the original, making it more robust.

were bolstered by

Similar to reinforced, but implies a more active or vigorous strengthening.

were enriched by

Implies that the addition added value or quality, making it more abundant in some desirable attribute.

were fortified by

Suggests a defensive strengthening, often with a sense of protection or resilience.

were amplified by

Indicates that the addition increased the effect or intensity of the original.

were expanded by

Highlights that the addition increased the scope or extent of the original.

were backed up by

Suggests that the addition provided support or confirmation, often in a defensive or evidentiary way.

FAQs

How do I use "were supplemented by" in a sentence?

Use "were supplemented by" to indicate that something was enhanced or completed by the addition of something else. For example, "The initial findings were supplemented by additional research".

What can I say instead of "were supplemented by"?

You can use alternatives like "were augmented by", "were enhanced by", or "were complemented by" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "were supplemented with" instead of "were supplemented by"?

While "supplemented with" is also correct, "were supplemented by" is generally preferred when the agent or means of supplementation is being emphasized.

What is the difference between "were supplemented by" and "were supported by"?

"Were supplemented by" implies an addition that completes or enhances, whereas "were supported by" ("were supported by") suggests provision of assistance or backing.