"Was active," "engaged," or "involved" are all possible synonyms for the phrase "were action." These terms suggest a sense of energy, movement, and participation. "Active" emphasizes the idea of being physically or mentally busy, while "engaged" highlights the concept of being actively involved in something. "Involved" suggests a sense of personal investment or commitment to a particular activity or project. Other synonyms might include "operating," "functioning," or "performing," each of which implies a certain degree of productivity or effectiveness. Ultimately, the precise synonym that best captures the intended meaning of "were action" will depend on the context in which the phrase is used.