we are approaching

USAGE SUMMARY

"we are approaching" is a perfectly correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
You can use it in a sentence that implies that something or someone is coming nearer or getting closer. For example, "We are approaching the end of the school year."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

We are approaching a moment of truth".

Independent

We are approaching those levels again today.

The New Yorker

We are approaching 18,000 feet.

The Guardian - Books

"See the valley we are approaching," says my friend Martin.

The Guardian - Travel

We are approaching the summit of the mid-Victorian novel.

The Guardian - Books

We are approaching that point I think," said Bailey.

The Guardian - Business

"We are approaching this in a tactical way.

The Guardian

We are approaching the 30th anniversary of this conflict.

The Guardian - Opinion

It's true that we are approaching things differently".

The New York Times - Sports

"But we are approaching a new method of product development".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

We are approaching the endgame.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we are approaching", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being approached, whether it's a physical location, a deadline, or a metaphorical milestone. For example: "We are approaching the deadline for submitting our proposals."

Common error

Avoid using "we are approaching" when a more specific verb would provide clarity. For instance, instead of "We are approaching a solution", consider "We are finding a solution" or "We are developing a solution" if the solution is actively being created or discovered.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are approaching" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of coming nearer to something. Ludwig provides several examples where this phrase is used to describe nearing physical locations, deadlines, or abstract concepts. The verb "approaching" is in the present continuous tense, emphasizing an ongoing action.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Science

22%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we are approaching" is a versatile verb phrase used to indicate that something is drawing near, whether physically or figuratively. Ludwig AI confirms that it follows standard grammar rules and is widely used in various contexts, particularly in news and media. To use it effectively, ensure the context clearly indicates what is being approached and avoid using it when a more specific verb would provide clarity. While generally neutral in register, its widespread use makes it suitable for a range of communications, as demonstrated by numerous examples.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are nearing

Focuses on the act of coming closer to something, often implying a gradual reduction in distance.

we are drawing near

Emphasizes the visual aspect of becoming closer, as if something is being pulled into view.

we are getting close to

Indicates progress towards a goal or deadline, suggesting that completion is imminent.

we are coming up on

Highlights the imminence of an event or milestone, emphasizing its anticipated arrival.

we are on the verge of

Conveys a sense of being at the precipice of a significant change or occurrence.

we are about to reach

Highlights the action of arriving to a location or a point in time

we are in sight of

Highlights the visibility and tangibility of nearing something

we are within reach of

Focuses on the attainability of a goal or objective, emphasizing its proximity and potential for success.

we are converging on

Indicates a coming together or uniting at a specific location or goal.

we are heading towards

Focuses on the direction of movement, suggesting a determined path towards a specific destination or outcome.

FAQs

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

Use "we are approaching" to indicate that something is getting closer, either literally or figuratively. For example, "We are approaching the city limits" or "We are approaching a critical decision point".

What are some alternatives to "we are approaching"?

You can use alternatives like "we are nearing", "we are drawing near", or "we are getting close to" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "we are approaching to"?

No, the correct phrasing is "we are approaching" without the "to". The verb "approach" doesn't require a preposition in this context.

What is the difference between "we are approaching" and "we are reaching"?

"We are approaching" indicates a gradual movement closer to something, while "we are reaching" suggests the act of arriving at or attaining something. For example, "We are approaching the summit" (getting closer) versus "We are reaching the summit" (arriving at the top).