we actually are

USAGE SUMMARY

"We actually are" is a perfectly valid phrase in written English.
You can use it to emphasize that something is true or factual, for example: "We actually are the best team in the league."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

So we actually are getting it out.

The Guardian

We actually are going to see some price competition".

The New York Times

And we actually are digging the hole deeper for the next generation.

The New York Times

"I am hoping to turn that image around and show people how powerful we actually are".

The New York Times

"We actually are quite cautious on the growth side," he said.

The New York Times

All we have to do is keep on denying how frightened we actually are.

The Guardian

We are going to have to show how good we actually are.

The Guardian - Sport

Find some time to focus on what we actually are doing in our offshore detention policy.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Can we actually be going there?

The Guardian - Opinion

"We actually were a little nervous," Kovalchuk said.

The New York Times - Sports

Sometimes it was stuff we actually were eating or cooking.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we actually are" to clarify or emphasize a point that might be surprising or contrary to common belief. For example, "Despite appearances, we actually are making progress on the project."

Common error

Avoid overuse of "actually", as it can make your writing sound defensive or condescending. Consider whether the emphasis is truly needed or if the statement is clear enough without it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we actually are" functions as a declarative statement with an added emphasis. The word "actually" serves to highlight the truth or reality of the statement, often implying a contrast with a prior assumption or expectation. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating this function in varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we actually are" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to emphasize the truth of a statement, often in contrast to a prior assumption. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for diverse contexts, though mindful use prevents overuse. Semantically related alternatives include "we truly are" and "we really are". It's prevalent in news, science, and business, indicating its adaptability for various communication types. Remember to use "actually" purposefully to clarify rather than to sound condescending.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we truly are

Emphasizes the genuineness of the statement; interchangeable in many contexts but slightly more emphatic.

we really are

Similar in meaning, but with a slightly less formal tone.

we are in fact

Adds a sense of confirmation or clarification to the statement.

we genuinely are

Highlights the sincerity and authenticity of the state being described.

we are indeed

A more formal way to express agreement or confirmation.

it is true that we are

Introduces the statement as a confirmed fact.

the truth is we are

Emphasizes that the statement is factual, often in response to a misconception.

we happen to be

Suggests an element of chance or unexpectedness.

we do are

While grammatically incorrect, this form is used for strong emphasis, particularly in informal speech.

we exist as

Focuses on the fundamental nature or existence in a certain state.

FAQs

How can I use "we actually are" in a sentence?

Use "we actually are" to emphasize a fact, especially when it might be unexpected or disputed. For example: "Many people think we're losing money, but "we actually are" profitable this quarter."

What phrases are similar to "we actually are"?

Alternatives include "we truly are", "we really are", or "we are in fact". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired emphasis.

Is it ever wrong to use "we actually are"?

While grammatically correct, overuse can make your writing sound defensive. Ensure the "actually" adds genuine value, clarifying or emphasizing a point, rather than simply being a filler word.

How does "we actually are" differ from "we are"?

The addition of "actually" emphasizes the truthfulness or unexpectedness of the statement. "We are" is a simple statement of fact, while "we actually are" suggests that the fact might be surprising or needs extra confirmation.