Let us pray

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Let us pray" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in religious contexts to invite a group to engage in prayer together. Example: "As we gather here today, let us pray for peace and understanding in our world."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Let us pray.

The New Yorker

Let us pray that it can be.

The New York Times

Let us pray for peace," he said.

Independent

"Let us pray," says the minister.

The New Yorker

Let us pray for Benedict XVI".

The New York Times

Let us pray we have the wisdom to choose correctly.

The New York Times

Let us pray that they are alive somewhere".

The New York Times

Let us pray that this does not herald a trend.

The New Yorker

Let us pray that thieves have grown no smarter in a decade.

The New York Times

"Let us pray," said the front-page headline in The Philadelphia Daily News today.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Let us pray that somebody runs that clip at the Oscars, when Simmons is up for Best Supporting Actor.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and setting when using "Let us pray". Ensure it aligns with the cultural and religious sensitivities of the group.

Common error

Avoid using "Let us pray" in casual or informal settings where it might be perceived as insincere, mocking, or disrespectful. It is best reserved for moments of genuine reflection or supplication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Let us pray" functions primarily as an imperative, specifically a cohortative imperative, inviting or urging a group to participate in the act of praying. As seen in Ludwig, it's a direct call to action within a religious or spiritual context.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Let us pray" is a grammatically correct and widely used phrase that functions as a direct call to prayer, typically in formal or religious contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is generally appropriate in settings where a solemn and respectful tone is desired. While alternatives like "let's offer a prayer" or "join me in prayer" exist, "Let us pray" maintains a strong association with traditional religious practices. It's important to consider the audience and setting to ensure its use is perceived as genuine and respectful. The phrase appears most frequently in news and media, reinforcing its role in reporting on events where prayer is invoked.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Let's offer a prayer

Focuses on the act of offering a prayer rather than a direct invitation.

May we offer a prayer

Suggests a more formal and polite request to begin praying.

Let's say a prayer

Similar to 'Let's offer a prayer', focusing on the act of uttering a prayer.

May we all pray

Shifts the emphasis to a collective wish or hope for prayer.

Join me in prayer

Directly invites others to participate in the act of praying.

Let's turn to prayer

Indicates a transition to prayer as a solution or source of comfort.

Let us seek divine guidance

Replaces the act of praying with the seeking of divine guidance.

Let's hope and pray

Combines hope with the act of praying, emphasizing both emotions.

May God be with us

Expresses a wish for divine presence and support, similar to a prayer.

Let's have faith

Emphasizes the importance of faith and belief during challenging times.

FAQs

What does "Let us pray" mean?

"Let us pray" is an invitation to a group to engage in prayer, typically seeking divine intervention, guidance, or expressing hope and unity.

When is it appropriate to use "Let us pray"?

It is appropriate in religious services, memorial events, or when addressing a group facing adversity. It signals a moment of solemnity and reflection.

What are some alternatives to saying "Let us pray"?

You can use alternatives like "Let's offer a prayer", "Join me in prayer", or "Let's say a prayer" depending on the context.

Is "Let us pray" grammatically correct?

Yes, "Let us pray" is grammatically correct. The phrase uses "let" as a form of imperative, inviting or suggesting an action.