are we wrong

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are we wrong" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when questioning the validity of a belief, opinion, or action, often in a context of seeking clarification or validation. Example: "After discussing the issue for hours, we started to wonder, are we wrong in our assessment of the situation?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

That comes across as a double standard, Sir. Are Muslims wrong in Pakistan or are we wrong in America?

Huffington Post

Or are we wrong?

The New Yorker

And are we wrong to do so?

The New York Times

They came on anyway, so we're not just going to sit there and say 'have a nice day.' They're trespassing; so are we wrong or are they wrong?

Vice

There was only one thing to do about it: we had to organize the list of "What Weren't You Told To Expect When You're Expecting" and ask the rest of you... are we wrong?

Huffington Post

Now, without getting into a philosophical discussion about are we wrong to not consider her as a viable candidate or not, I will say, while presumably raising her children, she started her own internet company (a small, but viable idea she converted into a beautiful site).

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

But were we wrong?

The New Yorker

Were we wrong?

The Economist

Were we wrong to stand?

The New York Times - Magazine

Were we wrong to buy it?

The New York Times - Magazine

Were we wrong to lose them?

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are we wrong", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being questioned. Be specific to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "are we wrong" sarcastically or in a way that puts the other party on the defensive. This can damage relationships. Instead, use it to genuinely seek understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are we wrong" functions as an interrogative clause, used to question the correctness of a previous statement, action, or belief. According to Ludwig, this phrase is correct and usable in written English. It seeks validation or invites reconsideration.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are we wrong" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed interrogative used to question the validity of a belief, action, or decision. Ludwig confirms its correctness and usability. It is commonly found in news and media, and it serves to solicit feedback, express doubt, or start a discussion about potential mistakes. For more formal alternatives, consider using phrases like "are we mistaken" or "have we erred". Remember to use this phrase thoughtfully, avoiding accusatory tones, to foster open communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are we mistaken

Replaces "wrong" with "mistaken", implying an error in understanding or perception.

are we in error

Uses a more formal term, "error", to question the correctness of something.

have we erred

A more concise and formal way of asking if a mistake has been made.

did we make a mistake

More directly asks if a mistake was made, focusing on the action.

were we incorrect

Substitutes "wrong" with "incorrect", suggesting a deviation from what is right or accurate.

are our assumptions wrong

Specifically questions the validity of underlying assumptions.

did we misjudge

Focuses on whether a person or situation was evaluated incorrectly.

are we off base

An idiomatic expression questioning if an assessment is inaccurate or misguided.

are we misguided

Focuses on whether we are being led in the wrong direction

is our understanding flawed

Focuses specifically on the possibility of there being imperfections in the understanding of something

FAQs

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

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "are we mistaken" or "have we erred". These options are suitable for professional or academic settings.

What's a less direct way to ask "are we wrong"?

You can soften the question by saying "are we off base" or "is our understanding flawed". These phrases are less confrontational and invite discussion.

When is it appropriate to use "are we wrong" in writing?

Use "are we wrong" when genuinely seeking feedback or clarification on an idea, decision, or assessment. It's appropriate in analytical pieces, discussions, and self-reflective writing.

Are there alternatives to "are we wrong" that focus on assumptions?

Yes, if you want to question the underlying assumptions, you could ask "are our assumptions wrong" This explicitly questions the validity of the assumptions made.