are we leaving

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are we leaving" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when inquiring about the status of a departure or when asking if a group is about to leave a location. Example: "As the meeting is coming to an end, I turned to my colleagues and asked, 'Are we leaving soon?'"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

"When are we leaving?

The New Yorker

What are we leaving to future ages?

Independent

What planet are we leaving for them?

The New York Times

What are we leaving for them?

The Guardian - Music

You know, what are we leaving them?

The Guardian - Film

"What is this and when are we leaving?" Miller said.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

So what are we left with?

The New Yorker

For what are we left with otherwise?

The Guardian - Opinion

What are we left with here?

The Guardian - Sport

1.40pm: So what are we left with?

The Guardian

Without solar, what are we left with?

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are we leaving" in dialogue, ensure the context makes it clear where the speakers are and what departure is being discussed. This avoids ambiguity and ensures clear communication.

Common error

Avoid using "are we leaving" when you mean to ask about something else entirely. For example, don't use it as a roundabout way of asking if a project is being abandoned. Be direct about your true concern.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are we leaving" functions as an interrogative clause, specifically used to inquire about the status or intention of a group's departure from a location. It seeks confirmation or clarification regarding the act of leaving, as exemplified by the sources available on Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Formal & Business

11%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "are we leaving" is a grammatically sound and commonly used interrogative phrase that serves to inquire about an imminent or planned departure. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and broad applicability. This phrase is most frequently found in news and media contexts, indicating its relevance in reporting and discussions about events involving departures. While the phrase maintains a neutral register suitable for everyday use, alternatives exist to adjust the formality or specificity of the inquiry. Remember to consider the scope of the question to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is it time for us to go

This alternative uses a more descriptive and less direct approach to inquire about departure.

should we be departing now

Uses a more formal verb "departing" and the auxiliary verb "should" to suggest politeness or expectation.

when should we head out

Employs the phrasal verb "head out", which is more informal, and focuses on the timing of the departure.

is it our time to leave

Phrases departure as a scheduled or appropriate time to leave.

are we ready to depart

This alternative focuses on readiness for departure, which may include logistical preparations.

shall we make a move

Uses the idiomatic expression "make a move" to suggest initiating departure.

should we get going

This alternative is more colloquial and suggests a casual departure.

are we off

A shortened and informal way of asking if the departure is happening.

time to go

More of a statement than a question, signaling that it is time to depart.

ready to roll

An informal and enthusiastic way to ask if everyone is ready to leave.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "are we leaving" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, you can use phrases such as "are we departing", "is it time for our departure?", or "shall we commence our leave?". These options use more elevated language and suggest a planned or official departure.

What is a more casual alternative to "are we leaving"?

In informal settings, consider using alternatives like "are we off?", "should we get going?", or simply "time to go?" These options are shorter and more conversational.

Is "are we leaving" appropriate for written communication?

Yes, "are we leaving" is perfectly acceptable in written communication, particularly in emails, messages, or scripts. However, consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing when choosing between this and more formal alternatives.

What's the difference between "are we leaving" and "are we going"?

While both phrases inquire about departure, "are we leaving" specifically implies departing from a current location. "are we going" is broader and can refer to going to a destination or participating in an activity, not necessarily departing from somewhere.