are usually

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are usually" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing how a particular thing or group of things usually behaves or is. For example: "Tropical climates are usually hot and humid."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Tannins are usually supple.

The New York Times

They are usually tomboys.

The New York Times

They are usually disappointed.

The Economist

Demonstrations are usually banned.

The Economist

Cinemas are usually accommodating.

The Economist

(Classes are usually $10).

The New York Times

Doulas are usually women.

The New York Times - Books

Three are usually required.

The New York Times - Arts

Lots are usually small.

The New York Times

Punishments are usually random.

The New Yorker

Supplies are usually abundant.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are usually", ensure the statement reflects a genuine pattern and not just a one-off observation. Provide context to help readers understand the scope and limitations of the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "are usually" to make sweeping statements without sufficient evidence. Qualify your claims with phrases like "in many cases" or "for the most part" to indicate the possibility of exceptions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are usually" functions as an adverbial modifier, indicating the typicality or frequency of a state or action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound for expressing common occurrences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Wiki

25%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Academia

7%

Science

7%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "are usually" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to express that something typically happens or is generally true. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is reliable across various contexts. While it is a versatile phrase, it is crucial to avoid overgeneralization and consider exceptions. Alternatives like "are generally" or "are typically" can offer similar meanings. Remember to use this phrase judiciously to convey accurate and nuanced information.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are generally

This alternative is a direct synonym, replacing "usually" with "generally" for a similar meaning.

are typically

This phrase substitutes "usually" with "typically", indicating a common occurrence or characteristic.

are normally

This phrase replaces "usually" with "normally", suggesting a standard or expected condition.

are commonly

This alternative replaces "usually" with "commonly", emphasizing widespread occurrence.

tend to be

This phrase shifts the focus to a tendency or inclination rather than a strict usual occurrence.

are often

This phrase uses "often" instead of "usually", suggesting a frequent but not necessarily typical occurrence.

are, as a rule

This alternative presents the statement as a general rule or principle.

are mostly

This phrase uses "mostly" to indicate that something is true in the majority of cases.

are, in most cases

This alternative emphasizes that the statement holds true under normal circumstances.

are habitually

This phrase replaces "usually" with "habitually", emphasizing that something happens out of habit or routine.

FAQs

How can I use "are usually" in a sentence?

Use "are usually" to describe something that typically happens or is true in most cases. For example, "Summer days "are usually sunny"".

What's a good alternative to "are usually"?

Alternatives include "are generally", "are typically", or "are commonly", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to include "usually" when describing a common occurrence?

No, you can sometimes omit "usually" if the context makes it clear that you're describing a general trend. However, including it can add precision and avoid overgeneralization.

What is the difference between "are usually" and "are always"?

"Are usually" indicates something happens in most cases, while "are always" suggests it happens without exception. For example, "Birds "are usually able to fly"", but "2+2 "are always 4"".