you described that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "you described that" 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 that the project would take several months to complete."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

And then there has been this group that you described that has moved south and is involved.

The New York Times

The potential of drones, for example, for burglary, smuggling, murder, spying and many forms of coercion is surely obvious to the criminal world.Neville Holmes Ballarat, AustraliaControlling the mediaSIR – The soft censorship you described that pressures the media through government advertising and other means in Serbia is not unique to that country ("A zealot in power", March 22nd).

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Can you describe that experience?

The New Yorker

Can you describe that influence?

The New Yorker

How the hell do you describe that?

The Guardian - Sport

How do you describe that shot?

The Guardian - Sport

Can you describe that first week of the Unhappy Hipsters?

The New York Times

How would you describe that opponent in three words: Annoyingly, overbearingly intelligent.

The Guardian - Opinion

SCHWARTZ: Will you describe that program to the Court, for the record?

The New Yorker

Can you describe that briefly and talk about the role of "conversation" in viral phenomena?

The New Yorker

And then, maybe, could you describe that same scene through the lens of conscious uncoupling?

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "you described that", ensure that the context makes it clear what the person previously described. Provide a brief reminder if necessary for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "you described that" without sufficient context. The listener or reader needs to clearly understand what "that" refers to. If the description was lengthy, summarize it briefly before using the phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "you described that" functions as a reference to a prior statement or explanation given by the person being addressed. Ludwig indicates that it is grammatically correct and serves to remind or acknowledge previously provided details.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "you described that" is a grammatically sound and functionally versatile expression used to reference prior explanations or details. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and its utility in prompting further discussion. While categorized as rare in overall frequency, it finds its niche primarily in News & Media contexts. When using "you described that", ensure clarity by providing sufficient context to what "that" refers to. Consider the suggestions provided in the alternative phrases section, adapting your choice to fit the level of formality and the specific intention of your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

you explained that

Replaces 'described' with 'explained', focusing on the clarity provided.

you detailed that

Replaces 'described' with 'detailed', emphasizing thoroughness.

you mentioned that

Substitutes 'described' with 'mentioned', indicating a brief reference.

you outlined that

Substitutes 'described' with 'outlined', suggesting a structured overview.

you specified that

Replaces 'described' with 'specified', highlighting precision.

you illustrated that

Replaces 'described' with 'illustrated', focusing on visualization.

you indicated that

Uses 'indicated' instead of 'described', suggesting an indirect reference.

you recounted that

Replaces 'described' with 'recounted', emphasizing narration.

you portrayed that

Substitutes 'described' with 'portrayed', indicating a depiction.

you characterized that

Replaces 'described' with 'characterized', focusing on distinctive traits.

FAQs

How can I use "you described that" in a sentence?

Use "you described that" to refer back to a previous explanation or detail provided by the person you are addressing. For example, "Earlier, "you described that" the project would take several months. Can you give me an update?"

What's a more formal way to say "you described that"?

For a more formal tone, you could say "you detailed that" or "you specified that". These alternatives emphasize thoroughness and precision.

Is it always necessary to use "that" after "you described"?

While not always grammatically required, including "that" after "you described" often enhances clarity and flow, especially in more formal contexts. It explicitly connects the phrase to the described information.

What can I say instead of "you described that" if I want to emphasize agreement?

If you want to emphasize agreement or understanding, you could use phrases like "as you explained" or "according to your description" to acknowledge their previous statement.