Antonyms for the phrase "were in awe" would be words or phrases that indicate the opposite of being impressed, amazed, or overwhelmed. Some of these antonyms could include words like unimpressed, underwhelmed, disinterested, indifferent, unconcerned, or unenthusiastic. These words might be used to describe a situation in which someone is not impressed by something that others find impressive, or to express a lack of interest in something that is supposed to be impressive or awe-inspiring. The opposite of being in awe can also be seen as being skeptical or doubtful, so other antonyms might include words like skeptical, mistrustful, or suspicious.