where this was

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "where this was" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when referring to a specific location or situation previously mentioned. Example: "I remember the park, but I can't recall where this was." Alternative expressions include "where it was" and "the location of this."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

…in an environment where this was happening.

The Washington Post

It was obvious where this was headed.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Mr. Keating understood where this was going.

The New York Times

The therapist liked where this was going.

The New Yorker

"Think about where this was happening.

The New Yorker

I wasn't sure where this was going.

The New Yorker

He looked at her uneasily, unsure where this was going.

The New Yorker

We don't really know right now where this was going".

The New York Times

At first, I couldn't see where this was going.

The New York Times - Magazine

That's where this was going to lead up to".

The New York Times

I knew where this was going, but stayed silent.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "where this was", ensure the "this" clearly refers to a previously mentioned situation or object to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "where this was" if the referent of "this" is not immediately clear to the reader. Rephrase to specify the location or situation directly.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "where this was" functions as a relative clause, typically introducing information about a previously mentioned location, situation, or context. It connects a clause to a noun or pronoun, providing further detail about its setting. Ludwig shows its prevalent usage across different contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

25%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "where this was" serves as a relative clause to provide context regarding a location or situation. It is grammatically correct and quite common, as confirmed by Ludwig, particularly in news and media, and scientific writing. While its usage is versatile, clarity is key to ensure the referent is unmistakable. Alternative phrases such as "the location where this happened" or "the context in which this unfolded" can be used to provide nuanced emphasis. Maintaining clarity and considering the appropriate level of formality will ensure effective communication using "where this was".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the location where this happened

Specifies the event and its location.

the place where it occurred

Focuses on the event's location, using 'it' as a pronoun.

the setting in which this took place

Emphasizes the environment or circumstances of the event.

the context where this unfolded

Highlights the unfolding of the event.

the area where it existed

Describes a space in the past tense.

the site of this event

Focuses on a specific geographic spot or place.

the position that this occupied

Emphasizes the original arrangement or spot.

the circumstances in which this existed

Highlights the particular set of conditions that affected something.

the background where this was set

Highlights the circumstances of the action.

the locale in which this developed

Focuses on the evolving aspects of the event.

FAQs

How can I use "where this was" in a sentence?

You can use "where this was" to refer back to a previously mentioned place or situation. For example, "I revisited the town "where this was" filmed."

What's a formal alternative to "where this was"?

In formal writing, you could use "the location in which this occurred" or "the context wherein this took place" instead of "where this was".

Is it correct to say "the place where this was at"?

While understandable, "the place where this was at" is considered redundant. The "where" already implies a location, so "at" is unnecessary. It's better to say "the place "where this was"".

Can "where this was" refer to a non-physical location?

Yes, "where this was" can refer to abstract locations like a situation, context, or environment, not just a physical place. For example, "Consider the circumstances "where this was" decided."