while we were fond of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "while we were fond of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a past affection or liking for someone or something during a specific time period. Example: "While we were fond of the old traditions, we decided to embrace new ones as well."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

While we are fond of our company logos, customers really like to use items that have their names on them.

The New York Times

We were fond of the word "flagellation".

The New Yorker

But, as we are fond of telling students, "No excuses".

Huffington Post

We are fond of each other.

The New Yorker

Perhaps that is why we are fond of sugar".

The Economist

In business we are fond of best practices.

Forbes

However, while some reviewers were fond of the song's restrained vocals and production, others found the song to be too dramatic and a poor choice for a first single.

Wikipedia

The Powells were fond of Eileen while noting a "defensive side".

The Guardian - Books

While Free for All is fond of presenting composers' works in their entirety, a cycle of this nature can be a mixed blessing.

The New York Times - Arts

A while back Wenger was fond of talking up his "British core", the six or seven home nations players signed to long-term contracts.

The Guardian - Sport

Although she was fond of elongated syllables while a member of Destiny's Child, Beyoncé gradually moved away from brassy displays.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "while we were fond of" to introduce a contrast or a change in preference, setting up a comparison between past and present sentiments.

Common error

Avoid using "while we were fond of" when a simpler "we liked" or "we enjoyed" would suffice, especially in modern or informal writing. The phrase can sound overly formal or nostalgic if not used carefully.

Linguistic Context

Adverbial clauses like "while we were fond of" typically modify a main clause, providing context or contrasting information. Ludwig AI supports this function.

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, "while we were fond of" is a grammatically correct adverbial clause used to express past affection, often contrasting with a present situation. Although Ludwig AI flags it as correct, this analysis finds that its frequency is currently low. It is best employed to introduce a shift in preference, but is less suitable in contemporary informal contexts where simpler alternatives may be more appropriate. The phrase fits a neutral register and can be effectively replaced with similar phrases, such as "during our fondness for" or "when we appreciated", to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

during our fondness for

Changes the structure to a prepositional phrase, emphasizing the period of fondness.

when we appreciated

Replaces "fond of" with "appreciated", focusing on the act of valuing something.

in the days we cherished

Uses a more poetic and evocative tone to express past affection.

back when we enjoyed

Replaces "fond of" with "enjoyed", focusing on the pleasure derived from something.

in our earlier appreciation of

Formal variation, suggesting a previous and perhaps discontinued appreciation.

in times when we favored

Replaces "fond of" with "favored", implying a preference.

as we once admired

Focuses on admiration as the form of past affection.

during our period of liking

More literal and less nuanced alternative.

when we held affection for

Uses "held affection for" to denote past feelings.

formerly enjoying

Emphasizes that the enjoyment is no longer current.

FAQs

How can I use "while we were fond of" in a sentence?

Use "while we were fond of" to express a past liking or preference, often contrasting it with a present situation. For example, "While we were fond of the old house, we decided to move to a modern apartment".

What can I say instead of "while we were fond of"?

You can use alternatives like "during our fondness for", "when we appreciated", or "back when we enjoyed" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "while we are fond of" instead of "while we were fond of"?

Yes, "while we are fond of" is correct, but it indicates a present liking. "While we were fond of" indicates a past liking, often implying a change in preference or circumstance.

What's the difference between "while we were fond of" and "we used to like"?

"While we were fond of" often implies a contrast or transition, whereas "we used to like" simply indicates a past preference. The former sets up a comparison, while the latter is a statement of past enjoyment.