are we talking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are we talking" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when seeking clarification about the subject or context of a discussion. Example: "Before we proceed, can you clarify what specific topic are we talking about?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

How small are we talking?

The New York Times

"What are we talking about?

The New York Times

Indeed, who are we talking about tomorrow?

Éthique & Santé

And which toxins are we talking about?

The New York Times

What night are we talking about?" "Thursday".

The New Yorker

What facts are we talking about?

The Economist

So what are we talking about?

The New York Times

How many deaths are we talking about?

The New York Times

So who are we talking about?

The New York Times

So what are we talking about here?

The New York Times

Whose cheek are we talking about?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are we talking" to steer a conversation back on track or to ensure everyone is on the same page regarding the topic at hand.

Common error

Avoid using "are we talking" when a simple clarification question would suffice. Overusing it can make you sound as if you are constantly questioning the speaker's direction rather than seeking genuine understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are we talking" functions as an interrogative expression used to seek clarification or confirmation regarding the topic under discussion. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Academia

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are we talking" is a versatile and frequently used expression aimed at clarifying the subject of a conversation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, though it is most prevalent in news and media. While perfectly acceptable, remember that more formal alternatives like "what are we discussing" might be preferable in academic or professional settings. Being mindful of the context and your audience will ensure you communicate effectively, whether you're seeking clarification or steering a discussion. The phrase is very common with 59 examples.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

what exactly are we talking about?

Adds emphasis, seeking precision in the discussion's scope.

what are we discussing?

Emphasizes a more formal or structured conversation.

what are we referring to?

Focuses on the specific subject being referenced.

can you clarify what you mean?

Directly asks for clarification of a previous statement.

what's the subject under discussion?

Suggests a more academic or formal setting.

what are we getting at?

Implies a search for the underlying point or purpose.

what's the matter at hand?

Highlights the immediacy or importance of the topic.

where are we going with this?

Focuses on the direction or intended outcome of the conversation.

what's the point of this discussion?

Directly questions the relevance or purpose of the exchange.

in what context are we speaking?

Highlights the need to understand the framework of the conversation.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "are we talking" in a professional setting?

In formal contexts, you might prefer phrases like "what are we discussing", or "could you please clarify the subject" to maintain a respectful tone.

Is "are we talking" appropriate for academic writing?

While grammatically correct, "are we talking" is generally too informal for academic writing. Instead, opt for phrases such as "what is the focus of this discussion" or "to what are we referring".

What is the difference between "are we talking about" and "are we discussing"?

"Are we talking about" is slightly more conversational, while "are we discussing" implies a more structured and purposeful conversation. Both aim to clarify the topic, but the latter suggests a more formal setting.

When should I use "are we talking" over other similar phrases?

Use "are we talking" when you need a quick, informal way to ensure everyone in the conversation is aligned on the current topic. It's particularly useful when tangents occur or when the discussion has become unclear.