are we setting

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are we setting" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when inquiring about the establishment or arrangement of something, often in a collaborative context. Example: "Before we proceed with the project, are we setting the timeline for our meetings?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

What examples are we setting for other countries?

The New York Times

"What standard are we setting here?" Similar small-studio proposals are being considered in urban areas across the country.

The New York Times

If we allow this innocent grandmother to be dragged back to the US in chains, what precedent are we setting ourselves for the future?

The Guardian - Opinion

What sort of example are we setting by deciding with a lottery who gets a chance?Honestly, as a human being I feel devastated this is even considered.

The Economist

These children are in our care; we, the state, are their parents – and what are we setting them up for... …the dole, the streets, an early grave?

Independent

Obama said: "My concern has always been not that we shouldn't do intelligence gathering to prevent terrorism, but rather are we setting up a system of checks and balances".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

But were we setting an unreasonable pace?

Huffington Post

His thinking was, we set 'em, come and get 'em.

The New York Times - Sports

"The success is we set the table.

Huffington Post

But the truth is we set them up for failure.

HuffPost

What precedent are we are setting for our girls whose stories have not been told?

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are we setting" to prompt reflection on the consequences or standards being established by current actions. It encourages a forward-thinking perspective.

Common error

Avoid using "sitting" instead of "setting". "Setting" implies establishing something, while "sitting" refers to the act of being seated. For example, "Are we setting a good example?" is correct; "Are we sitting a good example?" is incorrect.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are we setting" functions as an interrogative clause used to question the implications, standards, or examples being established by current actions. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable form.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Formal & Business

20%

Academia

16%

Less common in

Science

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are we setting" is a grammatically correct and commonly used interrogative phrase. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's used to question the implications of actions and decisions. Predominantly found in News & Media, it's also common in Formal & Business and Academic contexts. When using this phrase, consider if you're truly questioning the standards, examples, or consequences being established, and avoid confusion with similar-sounding words. Employ it to foster reflection and responsible decision-making.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

What are we establishing?

Focuses on the act of establishing something, rather than the ongoing process of setting.

What precedent are we creating?

Emphasizes the creation of a standard for future actions.

What kind of standard are we setting?

Highlights the quality or nature of the standard being established.

Are we creating a trap for ourselves?

Focuses on whether a situation being created might have negative consequences for those creating it.

Are we laying the groundwork?

Suggests the creation of a foundation for something.

What example do we set?

Focuses on the kind of role model or pattern of behavior that's established.

What expectations are we cultivating?

Focuses on the expectations that are developing as a result of the actions.

Are we on track?

Asks if current progress aligns with a predetermined plan or goal.

Are we preparing for a fall?

Questions whether current actions could lead to negative consequences.

Are we building a solid future?

Examines the stability and resilience of future prospects based on present actions.

FAQs

How can I use "are we setting" in a sentence?

Use "are we setting" to inquire about the implications of an action or decision, such as, "Are we setting a positive example for future generations?"

What is a similar phrase to "are we setting"?

A similar phrase is "what precedent are we creating", which also questions the lasting impact of current choices.

Is it correct to say "are we setting up" instead of "are we setting"?

While similar, "are we setting up" often refers to preparing or arranging something, whereas "are we setting" can imply establishing a standard or example.

What's the difference between "are we setting" and "are we achieving"?

"Are we setting" focuses on establishing or creating something, while "are we achieving" focuses on reaching a specific goal or outcome.