let us pray

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "let us pray" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in religious contexts to invite a group to engage in prayer together. Example: "As we gather here today, let us pray for peace and understanding in our world."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Let us pray.

The New Yorker

Let us pray that it can be.

The New York Times

Let us pray for peace," he said.

Independent

"Let us pray," says the minister.

The New Yorker

Let us pray that metamorphosis never happens.

The New York Times

O. K. Michaelian, let us pray.

The New Yorker

Let us pray for Benedict XVI".

The New York Times

Let us pray we have the wisdom to choose correctly.

The New York Times

Then, in another twist, the announcer said, "Let us pray".

The New York Times

Let us pray that they are alive somewhere".

The New York Times

Let us pray that this does not herald a trend.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "let us pray" in contexts where you wish to invoke a sense of shared faith, hope, or reverence. It's effective when leading a group in prayer or expressing collective sentiments.

Common error

Avoid using "let us pray" in purely secular or ironic situations, as it may come across as insincere, mocking, or inappropriate. Reserve it for moments where a genuine spiritual connection is intended.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "let us pray" functions primarily as an exhortative, directly inviting or urging a group to engage in prayer. Ludwig AI indicates its use in religious contexts or situations where a spiritual appeal is deemed fitting.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "let us pray" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression primarily serving as an invitation to engage in prayer. According to Ludwig, its use is most common within news and media contexts, reflecting instances where collective prayer or spiritual appeals are made public. While generally formal to neutral in register, care should be taken to avoid its misuse in secular or ironic situations. Related phrases include alternative ways of expressing supplication or hope. Therefore, "let us pray" is best reserved for moments requiring a genuine expression of faith and reverence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

join me in prayer

A direct and personal invitation to pray together.

let's offer a prayer

More concise and informal while retaining the direct call to prayer.

may we pray

Expresses a sense of possibility or permission for prayer, rather than a direct invitation.

let us offer our supplications

More formal and emphasizes the act of humbly requesting something.

may we find solace in prayer

Shifts the focus to the comfort and support derived from praying.

let's send our hopes and prayers

Combines the action of praying with positive expectations.

let's keep them in our thoughts and prayers

Expresses sympathy and support, often used when someone is facing difficulties.

we should pray

Suggests a moral imperative to engage in prayer.

it is time for prayer

Indicates a moment designated for prayer.

our prayers are with

Expresses support and empathy through prayer.

FAQs

How do you use "let us pray" in a sentence?

"Let us pray" is typically used to introduce a prayer, as in, "Let us pray for peace in our world."

What's a less formal alternative to "let us pray"?

Less formal alternatives include "let's pray" or "join me in prayer", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to say "let us pray" in a non-religious setting?

Generally, it is more appropriate in a religious setting. In non-religious contexts, consider using phrases like "let's hope" or "we can only hope" to convey a similar sentiment.

What is the difference between "let us pray" and "may we pray"?

"Let us pray" is a direct invitation or exhortation to pray, while "may we pray" is a request for permission or an expression of possibility.