should we demand

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "should we demand" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when posing a question about whether it is appropriate or necessary to request something strongly or insistently. Example: "Should we demand better working conditions for all employees?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Nor should we demand a response at once.

The Guardian - Books

Should we demand that our schools post signs stating "Recruitment-Free Zone"?

The New York Times

Why should we demand that a majority view of what is right applies to everyone?

The Guardian - Opinion

Why should we demand less of our leaders than we do of our teachers?

The New York Times

Should we demand that in return for preferential tax treatment, programs target more clearly the needs of the poor?

The New York Times

Should we demand stories that bring us closer to the randomness of our lives?

HuffPost

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Shouldn't we demand that more realistic images be put before our daughters?

The New York Times

Shouldn't we demand not only that it sound safe for our children to explore, but that it is safe?

The Guardian - Film

We should be saying we demand freedom of speech for these people".

Huffington Post

When the company says 'local service is unprofitable', then, the answer should be - We demand audits and investigations.

Huffington Post

What should we be demanding of our governments as the population ages?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "should we demand", clearly define what specific outcome or action you are seeking to achieve with the demand. Being specific strengthens your argument and makes the request more actionable.

Common error

Avoid using "should we demand" without providing a clear rationale or justification for the demand. Demands lacking a solid foundation may be perceived as unreasonable or entitled, weakening your position.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "should we demand" functions as an interrogative expression used to question the appropriateness or necessity of making a strong request or expectation. As Ludwig AI shows, it opens a discussion on whether insisting on something is justified or required.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "should we demand" is a grammatically sound and commonly used interrogative expression that serves to question the appropriateness or necessity of making a firm request. According to Ludwig AI, it is suitable for initiating discussions about rights, responsibilities, and necessary changes. While adaptable to various contexts, it is most prevalent in news and media, scientific, and formal business domains. When employing this phrase, it's crucial to provide a clear rationale for the demand to avoid perceptions of unreasonableness. Consider alternatives like "ought we to require" for increased formality or "what expectations should we have" for a less confrontational approach.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is it appropriate to demand

Examines the appropriateness of making a demand, considering social or ethical implications.

is it necessary to demand

Focuses on the necessity of the demand, rather than simply questioning if it's appropriate.

do we need to insist on

Highlights the need to be firm and persistent in requesting something.

must we insist upon

Emphasizes the urgency and importance of the demand.

ought we to require

Uses a more formal tone, questioning the obligation to require something.

is it right to expect

Shifts the focus to the fairness or justification of an expectation.

is it justifiable to request

Asks whether there is a valid reason for making the request.

are we entitled to demand

Explores the idea of having a right or legitimate claim to demand something.

what are our rights to demand

Addresses the legal or moral entitlements that justify making a demand.

what expectations should we have

Focuses on defining reasonable expectations in a given situation.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "should we demand" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "ought we to require" or "must we insist upon". These options convey a stronger sense of obligation or necessity compared to "should we demand".

What's the difference between "should we demand" and "should we expect"?

"Should we demand" implies a stronger, more assertive request, while "should we expect" suggests a more passive anticipation of something happening. Demanding involves actively seeking something, while expecting involves awaiting something. Consider using "should we expect" when a guaranteed outcome is not guaranteed.

In what situations is it appropriate to use "should we demand"?

It's appropriate to use "should we demand" when you believe a specific action or outcome is necessary or just, and when a firm request is required to achieve it. This phrase is suitable for discussions about rights, responsibilities, or necessary changes.

Are there alternatives to "should we demand" that are less confrontational?

Yes, consider using phrases like "is it appropriate to request" or "what expectations should we have" if you want to explore the possibility of a request without sounding overly assertive. These alternatives invite discussion and consideration rather than imposing a demand. If you're looking to have a constructive discussion look for "what expectations should we have"?