were under discussion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "were under discussion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that a particular topic or issue was being talked about or considered at a certain time. Example: "The proposed changes to the policy were under discussion during the last meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

The main question of this study was: "What is the nature of design talk of a group of teachers during the design of technology-rich early literacy activities?" Using a holistic case study on design talk, the analysis focused on the topics that were under discussion and how these topics were discussed.

Computers & Education

Female American comedians were under discussion this week.

The Guardian

Dr. Goosby said several of those issues were under discussion.

The New York Times

Two of the world's most celebrated (and hated) comedians were under discussion this week.

The Guardian

Diplomats said various proposals were under discussion to resolve the dispute.

The New York Times

They are being offered for charter, and officials said several trips were under discussion.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

Replacements are under discussion.

The New York Times - Arts

Two options are under discussion.

The Economist

Various ideas are under discussion.

The Economist

It's under discussion".

The New York Times - Books

Similar regulations are under discussion in Europe.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "were under discussion" to indicate that something was actively being talked about or considered, but not necessarily decided upon. This phrase is suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "were under discussion" when the topic has already been decided or resolved. This phrase implies an ongoing process, not a finished outcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "were under discussion" functions as a descriptive element within a sentence, indicating that certain topics, proposals, or ideas were in a state of active conversation or deliberation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable structure.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "were under discussion" is a versatile expression used to denote that certain subjects were being actively discussed or considered, but not necessarily resolved. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts, from news reports to academic papers. While alternatives such as "were being considered" or "were being debated" offer subtle nuances, "were under discussion" remains a straightforward and widely accepted option. Its frequency is classified as common, appearing most often in news and media, science, and formal business contexts. To ensure clarity, it's best to avoid using this phrase when a decision has already been made.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

were being considered

Emphasizes the process of thinking about something, suggesting a more formal evaluation.

were up for discussion

Indicates that a topic was available and intended for discussion.

were being negotiated

Highlights the bargaining aspect of the discussion, implying an attempt to reach an agreement.

were being reviewed

Suggests a more formal and systematic examination of something.

were being debated

Implies a more active and potentially contentious discussion, with differing opinions.

were being addressed

Highlights the act of dealing with a problem or issue.

were being examined

Focuses on a detailed inspection or analysis of the subject.

were on the agenda

Indicates that something was formally scheduled to be discussed.

were being contemplated

Emphasizes a thoughtful and careful consideration of the matter.

were being thrashed out

Suggests a vigorous and often lengthy discussion aimed at resolving a problem.

FAQs

How to use "were under discussion" in a sentence?

Use "were under discussion" to indicate that topics, plans, or ideas were being talked about but haven't reached a final decision. For example, "Several options "were under discussion" to resolve the dispute.".

What can I say instead of "were under discussion"?

You can use alternatives like "were being considered", "were being debated", or "were being reviewed" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "were under discussion" or "are under discussion"?

"Were under discussion" indicates past tense, use it when the discussion happened in the past. Use "are under discussion" when the discussion is happening now or is ongoing.

What's the difference between "were under discussion" and "were decided"?

"Were under discussion" means the topics were being talked about but not finalized, while "were decided" means a final decision or conclusion has been reached.