they are deliberating

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they are deliberating" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a group of people who are discussing or considering something carefully before making a decision. Example: "The committee members are currently in a meeting, and they are deliberating on the best course of action for the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

While jurors' names are a matter of public record, news organizations do not ordinarily name jurors while they are deliberating.

The New York Times

"This case is having an enormous impact on society, so they are deliberating very carefully right now what to do about it," Mr. Xue said.

The New York Times

This makes it possible to vary the advertisements shown depending on the time of day, season, or local factors such as demographics or weather.This ability to reach consumers just as they are deliberating about which item to pick from the shelves what the marketers at Procter & Gamble, a big consumer-goods firm, call "the first moment of truth"—has huge potential.

The Economist

For many years now, judicial reformers in New York State, led by Chief Judge Judith Kaye, have been calling on lawmakers in Albany to end the state's foolish policy of requiring that jurors in all criminal cases involving violent crime be sequestered while they are deliberating, whether they need to be isolated or not.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Another said they were deliberating thoughtfully.

The New York Times

I've even heard a few friends tell me they're deliberating between Kadima and Hadash, which makes the gap between Labour and Conservative look positively minute.

The Guardian

And despite the judge's admonition to avoid media coverage about the trial, jurors learned about the verdicts in the cases of Mr. Woods's co-defendants while they were deliberating, the juror said.

The New York Times

When they were deliberating, he would have an aide look out the window.

Huffington Post

DeRouchey said he was in contact with Itoham's American subsidiary, Itoham America, and that they were deliberating over next steps.

Huffington Post

Still, they're deliberating...weighing the options...not quite sure the time is right... To everyone who's been planning or even considering a new life overseas, I say now: Just do it.

Huffington Post

They are deliberate, orchestrated events".

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "they are deliberating", ensure the context clearly indicates who "they" refers to, especially if it's not immediately obvious from the preceding sentences. Clarity avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "they are deliberating" when the group is merely discussing or exploring ideas without the intent to reach a decision. "Discussing" or "exploring" are more appropriate if a conclusion isn't imminent.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they are deliberating" functions as a verb phrase indicating an action performed by a group. It describes the process of careful consideration and discussion before making a decision. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "they are deliberating" is a grammatically sound and readily understandable phrase used to convey that a group is currently engaged in careful consideration and discussion to reach a decision. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is perfectly usable in written English. While its frequency is uncommon, its usage spans across various contexts, especially in News & Media. When using "they are deliberating", ensure clarity about who "they" refers to and consider the specific nuance you wish to convey, perhaps opting for alternatives such as "they are considering" or "they are debating" depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they are debating the issue

Replaces "deliberating" with "debating", emphasizing the discussion of different viewpoints.

they are considering the matter

Replaces "deliberating" with a more general term, "considering", focusing on contemplation.

they are weighing the options

Emphasizes the comparison of different choices before making a decision.

they are pondering the question

Focuses on deep thought and reflection before reaching a conclusion.

they are in consultation

Highlights the collaborative aspect of seeking advice and opinions.

they are contemplating their next move

Highlights the planning and strategic thinking involved in decision-making.

they are in conference

Emphasizes the formal meeting aspect of the deliberation.

they are hammering out the details

Focuses on the intense discussion aimed at resolving specific points.

they are mulling over the problem

Implies a more thoughtful and reflective consideration of an issue.

they are thrashing out a solution

Suggests a vigorous and potentially contentious debate to find a solution.

FAQs

How can I use "they are deliberating" in a sentence?

You can use "they are deliberating" to describe a group carefully considering something before making a decision. For example, "The jury "is deliberating" the verdict", or "The board members "are deliberating on" the proposed budget".

What's a more formal way to say "they are deliberating"?

More formal alternatives include "they are considering the matter" or "they are in consultation". These phrases are suitable for professional or academic contexts where a higher degree of formality is preferred.

What verbs are similar in meaning to "deliberating"?

Verbs with similar meanings include discussing, considering, weighing, contemplating, and debating. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "they deliberate" instead of "they are deliberating"?

Yes, "they deliberate" is grammatically correct. "They deliberate" implies a habitual or ongoing process of deliberation, while "they are deliberating" indicates a specific instance of deliberation happening now. It depends on the context.