were in English:

Tensions were increasing.

In the first few hours of the battle, Union forces were winning.

We were shocked when the landlord raised our rent by $200.00 a month.

Tom laughed at all of Mary's jokes, even the ones he didn't think were funny.

Yellow fever and smallpox were no longer a threat.

Seen from the plane, the islands were very pretty.

His family circumstances were such that he became a teacher out of necessity.

It was because of the storm that the trains were halted.

Please let me know the confirmation number you were told when you reserved the room.

The nation's trade balance improved last year as exports were strong, while imports remained steady.

Even at the end of the nineteenth century, sailors in the British Navy were not permitted to use knives and forks because using them was considered a sign of weakness.

You were in the second year of middle school last year, right?

Her windows were broken and her shutters hung crookedly.

All the soldiers were called out by the king to defend the castle against all opposition.

Many typographical errors were found.

Are you sure?

Work and play are words used to describe the same thing under differing conditions.

I went on vacation, and my plants are still alive.

In legal documents, difficult words and phrases are often used.

Hummer limousines are the ultimate symbol of conspicuous consumption.

All great men are dead and I am not feeling too well myself.

The summit talks are to be broadcast simultaneously throughout the world.

China and Mongolia are separated by the Great Wall of China.

Explain exactly what the reasons are.

Small cars are very economical because of their low fuel consumption.

Her sewing basket, dresser drawers and pantry shelves are all systematically arranged in apple-pie order.

It is said that Japanese people are kind to people they know, but rather cold to those they don't.

Excuse me, I have to get to Barcelona. Are there any flights today?

Cats are like girls. If they talk to you it's great, but if you try to talk to them, it doesn't go so well.

Most computers made today are equipped with multi-core processors.