as we gather

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as we gather" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a moment of coming together, often in a communal or formal context, such as meetings, events, or ceremonies. Example: "As we gather to celebrate this special occasion, let us reflect on our shared achievements."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Don't fall in," we are advised as we gather around the dark waters of Leeds Dock.

The Guardian

"There's only room for 130 people or so," Fergal screams as we gather worrying speed.

The Guardian

"As we gather here tonight," Reagan told Congress, "the state of our union is strong".

The New York Times

As we gather here tonight, Iran has begun to eliminate its stockpile of higher levels of enriched uranium.

The Guardian

It's not very nice of me to bring up death tonight, as we gather to celebrate ten emerging writers.

The New Yorker

So as we gather here this week, this is one of the challenges facing us as Liberal Democrats.

The Guardian

All of our cases are unclassified first, and as we gather more information we try to classify them".

The New York Times

As we gather to watch one scene in which Red Riding Hood meets the woodcutter, a cello starts playing from somewhere in the darkness.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

As we gather around F.B.I. headquarters sharpening our machetes and watching the buzzards circle overhead, let's be frank: There's a whiff of hypocrisy in the air.

The New York Times

Mike Bowers/The Global Mail Tony Abbott is making a sports funding announcement in Caboolture as we gather for the lunchtime summary.

The Guardian

As we gather at sunset for the opening ceremony on a vast open plain, the atmosphere's one of a big private party.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as we gather" to set a tone of collective purpose or shared experience at the beginning of a speech, article, or event.

Common error

Avoid using "as we gather" in very informal settings where simpler phrases like "as we meet" or "as we get together" would be more appropriate. Using it too casually can sound stilted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as we gather" primarily functions as an introductory conjunction phrase. It sets the stage for a shared activity, discussion, or reflection. Ludwig highlights its use in diverse settings, from political addresses to cultural events, emphasizing its versatility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

77%

Science

11%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as we gather" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to introduce a shared context or purpose, as confirmed by Ludwig. It is particularly frequent in news and media, and also found in scientific and formal business contexts. While generally neutral, it leans towards a formal register and serves to establish a sense of unity. It's best practice to use it when initiating speeches or formal communications, while avoiding overuse in informal settings. Consider alternatives like "as we meet" for casual conversations. Ludwig provides numerous examples of its usage across diverse sources, highlighting its versatile applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as we come together

Highlights the unity and collaboration aspect of the gathering.

as we meet

A more direct and simple way of expressing the act of coming together.

as we get together

A more casual and informal way of saying "as we gather".

as we convene

Replaces "gather" with a more formal term, suggesting a structured meeting.

as we assemble

Emphasizes the act of putting together or collecting people.

now that we've convened

Presents a more formal tone indicating the assembly is complete.

as we congregate

Suggests a more spontaneous or less formal gathering.

now that we're assembled

Shifts the focus to the state of being gathered, rather than the action.

while we're assembled

Indicates something happens during the time the group is together.

as we flock together

Implies a large group gathering, often with a sense of urgency or shared purpose.

FAQs

How can I use "as we gather" in a sentence?

Use "as we gather" to introduce a shared experience or purpose at the beginning of a meeting, speech, or event. For example, "As we gather here tonight, let us remember the importance of collaboration."

What phrases are similar to "as we gather"?

You can use alternatives like "as we meet", "as we convene", or "as we come together" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "as we gather"?

It's suitable for formal settings, speeches, and articles where you want to create a sense of unity or shared purpose. It can also be useful when setting a reflective or celebratory tone.

Is "as we gather" too formal for casual conversation?

Yes, in most casual conversations, simpler phrases like "as we get together" or "as we meet" are more appropriate. "As we gather" has a more elevated and formal feel.