you described

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "you described" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to something that someone has previously explained or detailed. Example: "In your last message, you described the process for submitting the report."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"The way you described him".

The New Yorker

You described just one gig.

The Guardian

I'm one of those people you described.

The New York Times

So we're bad at exactly what you described.

Cornell University

Q: You described a campaign group as "simply lobbying".

The Guardian

Go back to how you described your team.

Harvard Business Review

So, we end up with the disengagement you described.

The New York Times

You described kissing women without consent, grabbing their genitals.

The New Yorker

What's the matter with the way you described it?

The New York Times

You described at a high level where you are.

Harvard Business Review

You had it right, the way you described him".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To enhance clarity, follow "you described" with a concise summary of what was described. This reinforces understanding and keeps the focus on the content.

Common error

Avoid repeating "you described" multiple times in close proximity. Vary your language by using synonyms like "mentioned", "outlined", or "explained" to maintain reader engagement and prevent monotony.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "you described" functions as a meta-commentary device, referring back to a prior statement made by the listener or reader. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriate use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Academia

20%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "you described" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression across diverse contexts, as validated by Ludwig AI. Its primary function is to refer back to something previously stated, ensuring continuity in conversation. It's versatile enough for neutral, professional, or even scientific registers. To enhance clarity and engagement, avoid overuse and consider related phrases like "you mentioned" or "you outlined". Remember to always ensure that the context makes it clear to which description "you described" is referring.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as you mentioned

Replaces "described" with "mentioned", focusing on a briefer reference rather than a detailed account.

as you outlined

Substitutes "described" with "outlined", suggesting a more structured or schematic account.

the way you put it

Emphasizes the specific wording or manner in which something was expressed.

in your previous explanation

Highlights that a previous explanation is being referenced.

according to your account

Implies reliance on someone's personal narration or version of events.

based on your depiction

Replaces "described" with "depiction", highlighting a portrayal or representation.

following your explanation

Indicates a sequence where a previous explanation is the basis.

as you illustrated

Replaces "described" with "illustrated", suggesting the use of examples or visual aids.

to quote your words

Focuses specifically on repeating the exact words used previously.

remember how you said

Informal way to bring to mind a previous statement someone did.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "you described"?

You can use alternatives like "you mentioned", "you outlined", or "the way you put it" depending on the context.

How to use "you described" in a sentence?

Use "you described" to refer back to a previous explanation or account provided by someone. For example, "The problem "you described" seems to be a recurring issue."

Is "as you described" grammatically correct?

Yes, "as you described" is grammatically correct and can be used to introduce a reference to something someone has previously detailed. For example, "As "you described", the process is quite complex."

What's the difference between "you described" and "you explained"?

"You described" implies a more detailed or vivid account, while "you explained" suggests a clearer, more simplified account. Use "you described" when referencing specific details or imagery, and "you explained" when referencing a clearer or more simple account.