As we discussed

Using as we discussed is pretty straightforward. You typically put it at the beginning of a sentence or clause. It sets the stage for what you're about to say, grounding it in a previous conversation. For example, if you talked about a project deadline on Monday, on Tuesday you might say, As we discussed, the report is due by Friday. See? Simple and effective. You can use it in emails, meetings, or even casual chats. It works best when the other person actually *was* part of the previous discussion, otherwise, it might sound a bit cryptic. Don't worry, you'll get the hang of it quickly!

This phrase is pretty versatile, sitting comfortably in the neutral to formal zone. You'll hear it a lot in business emails and professional meetings. It shows respect and a certain level of professionalism. However, you can definitely use it casually too, especially if you're following up with a friend about plans. Imagine texting your buddy: As we discussed, pizza for dinner? Totally fine! It rarely sounds overly stiff unless you're using it in a very light-hearted situation. It's generally a safe bet in most contexts where you need to reference a past talk.

You're probably surrounded by this phrase without even realizing it.

• Email: As we discussed, please find the updated proposal attached.
• Meeting: As we discussed yesterday, let's prioritize these three tasks.
• Text: As we discussed, I'll grab coffee on my way.
• Job Interview (Zoom): As we discussed in the initial call, my experience aligns well with X.
• Project Management App (Slack/Teams): Team, as we discussed, please use the new template for all client reports.

It pops up everywhere! It's a workhorse phrase for keeping communication efficient.

Use as we discussed when you need to:

• Follow up on an action item.
• Remind someone of a decision made.
• Build on a previous point without repeating details.
• Show continuity in a conversation or project.
• Confirm mutual understanding.
• Transition smoothly to a related topic.

It's perfect for those moments when you're moving forward and need to acknowledge what's come before. Just make sure everyone involved was actually *there* for the original discussion, or else it's like an inside joke no one else gets!

Avoid this phrase when:

• The other person wasn't part of the original discussion. It can exclude them.
• You're trying to sound overly authoritative or dismissive. It can come across as condescending if used to shut down new ideas.
• You're trying to hide information. Don't use it to vaguely reference something you don't want to explain.
• In a really emotional or sensitive conversation. It can sound too detached.
• If you're talking to a new acquaintance about something minor. It can feel a bit formal.

If you're unsure, it's often better to briefly re-state the key point. Don't be a conversation gatekeeper!

Here are a couple of classic blunders to steer clear of:

• ✗ As we discussed about the budget... → ✓ As we discussed, the budget...

The about is totally redundant. You discuss something directly.

• ✗ Using it too much in one message.

If every other sentence starts with As we discussed, it sounds super repetitive. Mix it up!

• ✗ Assuming everyone knows what "we" means.

Make sure we actually includes the person you're talking to. Otherwise, it's a bit rude.

• ✗ As we discussed about going to the park... → ✓ As we discussed, we're going to the park...

Again, skip the extra about. Your friends will thank you.

While as we discussed is a star, it has a supporting cast of variations:

• As we talked about: A bit more casual, perfect for friends or informal colleagues.
• As previously mentioned: More formal, often seen in written reports or academic papers.
• Following our conversation: Another formal option, great for follow-up emails.
• As agreed: Short, sweet, and to the point, implying a decision was made.
• As you know: A more direct, sometimes slightly stronger way to remind someone.
• Regional differences are subtle here, but generally, the core meaning holds. Nobody's saying "as we discussed, eh?" in Canada (probably!).

Is 'as we discussed' too formal for everyday use?

Not at all! While it leans professional, it’s perfectly fine for casual chats when you need to reference an earlier point efficiently. It just shows you're on the ball.

Can I use it if I don't remember the exact details of the previous discussion?

It’s best to use it when you're confident both parties recall the conversation. If you're hazy, a quick "To confirm what we talked about..." is safer.

What if someone wasn't part of the original discussion?

If someone wasn't there, avoid it. Instead, say something like, "For those who weren't in the earlier meeting, we decided..." This keeps everyone informed.

Does it always imply agreement?

Not necessarily. It primarily references the *discussion* itself, not always a positive outcome. You could say, "As we discussed, we decided *not* to pursue that option."

Is it interchangeable with 'as you know'?

Not quite. As you know often implies a more general knowledge, while as we discussed specifically points to a shared conversation you both had.

Can I use it to emphasize a point?

Yes, subtly. It adds weight because it reminds the listener that this topic has already been covered and perhaps agreed upon. It reinforces continuity.

What's a common, modern alternative?

"Like we talked about" is a super casual and common alternative, especially in texts or quick chats. It's less formal but gets the job done.

Does it sound passive-aggressive sometimes?

It can, if used in a tone that implies, "Why are we still talking about this when we already covered it?" Be mindful of your tone and intent.

Is it okay to use in professional presentations?

Absolutely! It's a great way to link current slides or points back to earlier discussions with clients or colleagues, showing preparation and follow-through.

Are there situations where it could cause confusion?

Yes, if the "discussion" was vague or happened a long time ago, people might struggle to remember what you're referring to, causing more confusion than clarity.

Does it appear in pop culture, like TV shows or movies?

Definitely! You'll often hear it in business dramas, legal shows, or even family sitcoms where characters are reminding each other of past plans or arguments.

How does it differ from 'as mentioned'?

As mentioned is more general; it could refer to something mentioned in a document, an email, or a conversation. As we discussed is specifically about a dialogue between "us."

Can I use it when referring to a discussion I had with someone else, not the current listener?

No, we specifically means you and the person you're speaking to (or the group you're both part of). If it was someone else, say "As I discussed with [Name]..."