inclusive we

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "inclusive we" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when referring to a collective group that includes both the speaker and the audience or others. Example: "In this discussion, the inclusive we acknowledges everyone's contributions." Alternative expressions include "collective we" and "shared we."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

However inclusive we are, we have standards to maintain".

The Guardian - Opinion

It is a curious quirk of Scottish social life that, while we consider ourselves to be modern, enlightened and socially inclusive we nevertheless permit unimaginable psychological cruelty to be visited on animals each day at places such as Edinburgh Zoo.

The Guardian - Opinion

At the moment, we're talking to a lot of people and asking: "What's a structure that would be fair, transparent, scientifically credible, and inclusive?" We have only been talking about this for 6 weeks.

Science Magazine

Because we are inclusive we allowed patriarchy to navigate inside the decapitated head of our piñata.

Vice

Why are we missing an inclusive "we"?

The Guardian - Opinion

When an experience is shared, whether it's building a business relationship, supporting a sports team or commiserating after a tragedy like 9/11, pronouns can mutate, with "I" dropping out in favor of the inclusive "we".

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

Our thoughts, actions and words are policed because it is expected that we be inclusive when we have never been included.

Huffington Post

With neither shirt nor shame, he stepped out onto his stoop and began to sing a song about champions, a song that employed the all-inclusive "we".

The New York Times

Returning to an all-inclusive "we" means government has a role to play.

Huffington Post

And returning to an all-inclusive "we" means old-fashioned organized lifting of the people's voice to our elected officials.

Huffington Post

The display is not all-inclusive we simply ran out of room.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "inclusive we" when you specifically want to emphasize that your statement applies to everyone in a group, including yourself. This fosters a sense of unity and shared responsibility.

Common error

Avoid using "inclusive we" in highly formal or academic writing where a more objective tone is preferred. Instead, opt for impersonal constructions or specific subject references to maintain neutrality.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "inclusive we" functions as a pronoun accompanied by an adjective, emphasizing a shared sense of belonging and responsibility. As suggested by Ludwig, it aims to include all members of a group in a particular action or sentiment.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "inclusive we" is a phrase used to create a sense of unity and shared responsibility. Ludwig's analysis indicates it is grammatically correct and functions to foster collaboration and express collective identity. While generally neutral in tone, it's best to avoid it in overly formal contexts where objectivity is paramount. Keep in mind there are alternative phrases, for example "we all together", that can be used based on the context. As shown by Ludwig, this expression is common in News & Media and Science, and it is important to use it correctly to effectively engage your audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we all together

Highlights the shared experience and togetherness of the group.

all of us together

Emphasizes unity and collectivity, focusing on the group as a whole.

we as a whole

Similar to "us collectively" but with more emphasis on the unified entity.

us collectively

Focuses on the group's action or identity as a unified body.

everyone included

Highlights that nobody is excluded from the group or activity.

the entire group

Stresses the completeness and comprehensiveness of the group being referred to.

we without exception

Highlights that inclusivity is without exceptions.

all parties involved

More formal and specific, referring to all participants in a situation.

the group in its entirety

Emphasizes that every member is part of a team.

all of the members

Highlights the single members.

FAQs

How can I use "inclusive we" in a sentence?

The phrase "inclusive we" is used to indicate that a statement or action applies to everyone in a group, including the speaker. For example, "As a team, the "inclusive we" will strive to achieve our goals together."

What's the difference between "inclusive we" and "exclusive we"?

"Inclusive we" refers to a group that includes the speaker and the audience, fostering a sense of unity. "Exclusive we", on the other hand, refers to a group that excludes the audience, creating a sense of separation or distinction.

Are there situations where using "inclusive we" is inappropriate?

Yes, using "inclusive we" may be inappropriate in formal or academic writing where objectivity is crucial. In such contexts, it's better to use impersonal constructions or specific subject references. Also, avoid using it when the group you are referring to is not clearly defined or understood.

What are some alternative phrases to "inclusive we"?

Alternatives to "inclusive we" include phrases like "all of us together", "we all together", or "us collectively". These options can provide similar meaning with slight differences in emphasis or formality.