can we continue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can we continue" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to ask if it is possible to proceed with a discussion, task, or activity. Example: "After a brief pause, I looked around the room and asked, 'Can we continue with the meeting?'"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

How far can we continue?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

But how can we continue to grow?

The Guardian - Tech

Now, how can we continue America's progress?

The New York Times

Or can we continue to enjoy the odd bacon sarnie?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Can we continue to adapt, grow and stretch ourselves?

The New York Times

But I also wonder, how long can we continue on this path of increased inequality?

The Guardian

11.10am from Taylor: Can we continue to try to get MPs to ring each other?

The Guardian

How long can we continue to allow the totally laissez-faire dissemination of literature?

The New York Times - Books

"The challenge is, can we continue, given the growth we've seen in the West.

The New York Times

"Can we continue putting fees up until it becomes another poll tax on wheels?" Munby asked.

The Guardian

Can we continue an interventionist foreign policy with a country divided in this way?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can we continue" to invite further exploration or development of a theme in your writing. It's effective for transitioning between ideas or signaling a desire to delve deeper into a topic.

Common error

Avoid using "can we continue" when the continuation is already implied or obvious. Redundant usage can make your writing sound repetitive and less engaging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can we continue" primarily functions as an interrogative phrase used to seek permission or confirmation to proceed with an action, discussion, or state of affairs. This is supported by Ludwig and its numerous examples, showcasing its common use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can we continue" is a versatile and frequently used phrase that seeks permission or confirmation to proceed. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. It maintains a neutral tone, suitable for both formal and informal situations. When using this phrase, consider alternatives like "shall we proceed" or "should we carry on" for variety. However, ensure that its use is not redundant to maintain clarity and engagement. Based on the evidence, "can we continue" is a correct and valuable addition to effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

shall we proceed

Focuses on moving forward, similar to continuing.

should we carry on

Emphasizes the act of enduring and progressing.

may we resume

Suggests a formal return to a previously interrupted activity.

can we keep going

Highlights the aspect of maintaining momentum.

can we move forward

Directs attention to progression and advancement.

should we go ahead

Implies permission or agreement to proceed.

can we push on

Emphasizes effort and determination in continuing.

may we recommence

Suggests a formal restart or beginning again.

shall we perpetuate

Focuses on causing something to continue indefinitely.

are we able to sustain

Questions the capacity to maintain or prolong something.

FAQs

How to use "can we continue" in a sentence?

You can use "can we continue" to ask if it's possible to proceed with an activity, discussion, or plan. For example, "After the interruption, can we continue the meeting?" or "Now that we've addressed the issue, can we continue with the project?"

What can I say instead of "can we continue"?

You can use alternatives like "shall we proceed", "should we carry on", or "may we resume" depending on the context.

Is "can we continue" formal or informal?

"Can we continue" is generally considered neutral and appropriate for both formal and informal settings. However, in highly formal contexts, alternatives like "may we resume" might be preferred.

What's the difference between "can we continue" and "can we continue on"?

"Can we continue" and "can we continue on" are largely interchangeable, but "can we continue on" emphasizes the journey or process of continuing, whereas "can we continue" is a more general inquiry about the possibility of continuing.