are in the process

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are in the process" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is currently happening or being done. Example: "We are in the process of finalizing the project details and will update you soon."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

We are in the process of learning".

The New York Times

The others are in the process".

The Guardian

"We are in the process of reviewing".

The New York Times

We are in the process of healing".

The New York Times

Other states are in the process.

The Guardian

We are in the process of evaluating just such questions.

The New York Times

The couple are in the process of getting divorced.

The Guardian

They are in the process of applying for a licence.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

All four are in the process of changing their sex.

The New York Times

Now, indeed, we are in the process of changing".

The New York Times

We are in the process of working that through".

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are in the process" to clearly indicate an action that is currently unfolding, providing context and managing expectations about completion.

Common error

Avoid using "are in the process" excessively in passive constructions, which can make your writing sound vague. Instead, consider using active voice to make your sentences more direct and engaging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are in the process" functions as a verbal phrase indicating an ongoing action or state. It is used to describe that something is currently happening or being done, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Reference

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are in the process" is a grammatically correct and very common way to indicate that an action is currently underway. According to Ludwig, it is frequently used in news and media, scientific publications, and formal business settings. While generally neutral, it should be used judiciously to avoid passive voice overuse. Alternatives such as "are currently undertaking" or "are presently engaged in" can offer nuanced variations in meaning. Given its widespread use and clear communicative function, mastering the use of "are in the process" is essential for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are in the middle of

Suggests an action is at its midpoint or peak activity.

are currently undertaking

Emphasizes the active engagement and commencement of an activity.

are underway with

Indicates that something has been started and is currently happening.

are presently engaged in

Highlights the current involvement and participation in a task.

are moving forward with

Highlights the advancement and progression of a project or plan.

are actively pursuing

Stresses the purposeful and energetic continuation of an activity.

are developing

Highlights the development or improvement on some action.

are now working towards

Focuses on the progress and direction of the current efforts.

are implementing

Focuses on the put-into-practice action

are experiencing

Highlights that somebody is going through a process, but it's not necessarily driven by the subject.

FAQs

How can I use "are in the process" in a sentence?

You can use "are in the process" to indicate that something is currently being done or is underway. For example, "We are in the process of reviewing your application".

What are some alternatives to saying "are in the process"?

Alternatives include phrases like "are currently undertaking", "are presently engaged in", or "are actively pursuing", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "is in the process" instead of "are in the process"?

No, "is in the process" is used with singular subjects, while "are in the process" is used with plural subjects. For example, "He is in the process of moving", but "They are in the process of moving".

What's the difference between "are in the process of" and "have completed"?

"Are in the process of" indicates an ongoing action, while "have completed" implies that the action is finished. One denotes progress, while the other denotes completion.