The spelling of the phrase "wert reported" can be quite confusing, but it is actually quite simple when broken down phonetically. "Wert" is pronounced as /wɜrt/ (wuhrt) and is the archaic second person singular past tense of "be." "Reported" is pronounced as /rɪˈpɔrtɪd/ (rih-pohr-ted) and is the past tense of the verb "report." Together, "wert reported" means that someone or something was reported in the past while using an old-fashioned form of speech.
"Wert reported" is an antiquated phrase that is formed from the uncommon conjugation of the verb "to be" in the past tense indicating "were," and the verb "to report," which means to give an account or description of something. When combined, "wert reported" signifies that someone, or something, was mentioned, documented, or recounted in past tense. The archaic style of this phrase reflects the usage of "wert," an alternate form of "were," and its conjunction with "reported" gives it an old-fashioned and formal sense.
This expression is often found in historical or literary contexts, particularly in works written in Old English or early Modern English, where the verb "to be" is conjugated differently. It is typically used to describe actions, events, or individuals who have been described or mentioned by someone else in times past. The phrase carries the implication that information or an account was documented or communicated about the subject in question, contributing to an overall narrative or record.
"Wert reported" can be seen as a linguistic relic, falling out of common usage in contemporary English. However, its use can evoke a sense of time and place reminiscent of an earlier era, making it still valuable in historical or poetic contexts where one desires to maintain a specific tone or style.
The phrase "wert reported" does not have a specific etymology, as it is a combination of words used in Old English.
"Wert" is the second person singular past indicative form of the verb "to be" in the Old English language. It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word *wesaną, meaning "to be".
"Reported" is the past participle form of the verb "to report", which originated from the Latin word "reportare", meaning "to carry back, relate".
Therefore, "wert reported" can be understood as "you were reported" in contemporary English.