only we have

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "only we have" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize exclusivity or possession of something by a specific group or individuals. Example: "Only we have the resources necessary to complete this project successfully."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Only we have cross-party support.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Do only we have that kind of client?" they asked.

The Economist

"There are new things everywhere, if only we have eyes to see them.

Stanford University

This agenda is Labour's, and only we have the values to get it right.

The Guardian - Opinion

Jeffrey Lerner, a spokesman for the attorney general's office, said only, "We have an ongoing investigation".

The New York Times

They can say only, "We have such-and-such goods in stock".

The New York Times

"We are playing always attacking football, only we have scored (against Swansea), that's the big difference.

Independent

If for this life only we have hoped in Christ, we are the most pitiable people of all".

The New Yorker

It also has the line "only we have falafel," adding "because this is the national food of Israel".

The New York Times - Food

Dr. Dean's spokesman, Jay Carson, would say only: "We have great grassroots support all over the country.

The New York Times

They can say only, "We have such-and-such goods in stock". And that's all I really want to know.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "only we have" to emphasize a unique capability, resource, or perspective that sets your group apart. This strengthens your argument or position.

Common error

Avoid using "only we have" too frequently, as it can create an impression of arrogance or close-mindedness. Ensure the claim of exclusivity is genuinely accurate and not merely self-serving.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "only we have" functions primarily as a means of asserting exclusive possession or capability. It emphasizes that a particular attribute, resource, or skill is uniquely held by the speaker's group. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

30%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "only we have" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase for asserting exclusive possession or capabilities. Ludwig confirms its wide application, and it particularly appears in News & Media, Academia, and Science. Use it to highlight unique advantages, but be mindful of potential negative impressions if overused. Consider alternatives like "we alone possess" or "we are the only ones with" for nuanced expression. Its effectiveness hinges on accurate claims and appropriate context. The numerous examples in Ludwig demonstrate its versatility and relevance across diverse writing styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we alone possess

Emphasizes the exclusive possession by a group, using "alone" for stronger exclusivity.

we are the only ones with

Highlights that a group is uniquely equipped with something.

we uniquely have

Uses "uniquely" to stress the special nature of possession.

we exclusively have

Indicates possession to the exclusion of others.

solely in our possession

Highlights the fact that something is controlled by a particular entity.

we hold exclusively

Focuses on the act of holding or maintaining something in a unique way.

it's ours alone to have

Emphasizes that something is intended only for the use of a certain group.

we are the sole owners of

Highlights the exclusive ownership of something.

uniquely ours to possess

Stresses both the uniqueness and possession by a group.

we alone are privileged to have

Highlights the special or unique privilege of having something.

FAQs

How can I use "only we have" in a sentence?

Use "only we have" to emphasize a capability, resource, or perspective that sets your group apart. For example, "Only we have the experience necessary to solve this problem."

What can I say instead of "only we have"?

You can use alternatives like "we alone possess", "we are the only ones with", or "we uniquely have" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "only we have"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The phrase follows standard English grammar rules and is commonly used to emphasize exclusivity or unique possession.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "only we have"?

Use it when you want to highlight a unique attribute, skill, or resource that your group or organization possesses. However, ensure your claim of exclusivity is accurate and justified.