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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak quote

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

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were you able to check

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "were you able to check" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when inquiring if someone has had the opportunity to verify or examine something. Example: "Were you able to check the report before the meeting?"

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Depending on the program you are using, you may be able to check individual songs that you want to transfer or select all of your songs at once.

That's the kind of thing it would be nice to be able to check before you snap the shutter.

Seniors, here is your college admissions checklist for March: If you are able to check your decisions online, consider getting the news outside of school, even though it's hard to wait.

News & Media

The New York Times

You are supposed to be able to check on that basement heater while staying snug under the blanket.

News & Media

The New York Times

Even so, if you're expecting to be able to check one out from your local library?

News & Media

Huffington Post

While you probably aren't allowed to bring a thermometer into a supermarket, you are able to check the temperature by touching the chicken.

Unless you're able to check the hash or otherwise verify a firmware's source, downloading it is your own risk and not the responsibility of anyone else.

News & Media

TechCrunch

Check Your Online Decisions Off Campus If you are able to check your decisions online, consider getting the news outside of school, even though it's hard to wait.

News & Media

The New York Times

Make sure you are able to check the stock online or by phone with the dealer, before you order.

By 3pm you are able to check into your accommodation.

News & Media

Independent

Whip your hand out and draw the "@" on it, you're able to check your e-mail.

News & Media

TechCrunch
Show more...

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "were you able to check" when you want to know if someone had the opportunity and capability to verify or examine something. Ensure that the context clearly indicates what the person was supposed to check.

Common error

Avoid using "were you able to check" when you need to express a mandatory verification. Instead, use a stronger phrase like "did you verify" or "please confirm" to emphasize the necessity of the action.

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

60%

Authority and reliability

4.5/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The phrase "were you able to check" functions as an interrogative clause used to inquire whether someone had the opportunity and capability to perform a specific verification or examination. Ludwig AI considers this to be grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "were you able to check" is a grammatically sound phrase used to inquire about someone's capacity and opportunity to perform a verification or examination. Although Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, absence of examples indicates a lack of context for deeper analysis. When using this phrase, ensure clarity regarding what the person was expected to check. Consider stronger alternatives like "did you verify" for mandatory actions. In formal settings, "did you manage to verify" or "could you ascertain" could serve as substitutes.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "were you able to check" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases such as "did you manage to verify", "did you have the opportunity to inspect", or "could you ascertain" instead of "were you able to check".

What's the difference between "were you able to check" and "did you check"?

"Were you able to check" implies an inquiry about the ability or opportunity to perform the check, while "did you check" directly asks if the action was completed. The former acknowledges potential obstacles, while the latter assumes the possibility of the check and seeks confirmation of its execution.

Can I use "were you able to check" in a negative context?

Yes, you can use it in a negative context. For example, "Were you not able to check the data before submitting the report?" This implies you are asking if there was a reason they couldn't perform the check.

What are some common synonyms for "were you able to check"?

Common synonyms include "did you verify", "did you confirm", "did you review", or "did you inspect" depending on the specific context.

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Source & Trust

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Authority and reliability

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Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: