we are actually doing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are actually doing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize the current actions or activities being undertaken, often in contrast to what someone might assume or believe. Example: "While many think we are just planning, we are actually doing the groundwork to implement the new strategy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

We are actually doing nation creating.

The New York Times

Surely what ultimately matters is... what we are actually doing, rather than getting publicity for it".

Independent

But for the rest of us, we are actually doing our best.

The New York Times - Arts

What is it we are actually doing when we untag or delete photos of our exes?

The Guardian - Music

"We talk about it among ourselves, joking that we are actually doing a 9-to-5 job after all".

Independent

So in some of the trials, the medical practices may not reflect what we are actually doing today.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

It was something we were actually doing.

The New York Times

"We're actually doing this.

The New York Times - Magazine

Now we're actually doing it.

The New York Times

But in London we're actually doing something about it.

The Economist

Look at what we're actually doing here,'" she said.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we are actually doing" to clarify or emphasize the reality of a situation, especially when it might be misunderstood or underestimated. It adds a layer of assurance and directness to your communication.

Common error

Avoid using "we are actually doing" excessively in highly formal or academic writing. While grammatically correct, it can sometimes sound less sophisticated than alternatives like "we are actively engaged in" or "we are currently performing".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are actually doing" primarily functions as a verb phrase, emphasizing the present continuous action undertaken by a group. As Ludwig AI points out, this construction highlights the reality of the action, contrasting it with possible assumptions or expectations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

21%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we are actually doing" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to emphasize or clarify an ongoing action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is most frequently found in news and media contexts, serving to assert the reality of a situation. While versatile, it's important to consider the level of formality required for the writing context, opting for more sophisticated alternatives in academic or highly formal settings. By understanding its function and communicative purpose, writers can effectively use this phrase to add clarity and emphasis to their message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we're actively engaged in

Emphasizes the active and ongoing nature of the involvement.

we're currently performing

Focuses on the present time and the action being executed.

we're truly carrying out

Highlights the genuineness and execution of the action.

we're genuinely undertaking

Stresses the authenticity and commitment to the task.

we're in the process of executing

Focuses on the ongoing state of completing a task.

we are, in reality, performing

Adds emphasis to the reality of the situation, contrasting with possible assumptions.

we are presently working on

Highlights the current effort and the subject of that effort.

we are indeed implementing

Affirms the implementation is happening.

we're earnestly pursuing

Emphasizes the serious and sincere nature of the pursuit.

we're effectively executing

Focuses on how efficiently the task is being done.

FAQs

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

You can use "we are actually doing" to emphasize ongoing actions, such as, "While you might think we're just planning, "we are actually doing" the groundwork."

What's a more formal alternative to "we are actually doing"?

For a more formal tone, consider phrases like "we are actively engaged in", "we are currently performing", or "we are indeed implementing" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "we're actually doing"?

Yes, "we're actually doing" is a perfectly acceptable contraction of "we are actually doing" and carries the same meaning. Contractions are generally suitable for informal and neutral contexts.

What's the difference between "we are actually doing" and "we are currently doing"?

While similar, "we are actually doing" often emphasizes that the action is real or perhaps surprising, whereas "we are currently doing" simply indicates the action is happening now.