we are behind

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are behind" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone or something is lagging in progress or is late in relation to a schedule or deadline. Example: "Due to unforeseen circumstances, we are behind on our project timeline and need to adjust our deadlines."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Yeah, we are behind right now.

The New York Times - Sports

"We are behind in those places," he added.

The New York Times - Magazine

"Genetically, we are behind," said Strachan.

BBC

The place where we are behind and that's changing quickly is in workloads.

TechCrunch

It is better to stay at the top but, now we are behind, it doesn't change our target.

BBC

This is why we are behind, sigh.

Huffington Post

"Look, we are behind on high-speed rail," he said.

Huffington Post

"We are behind, and those that are behind must either speed walk or run.

Vice

"Per capita, we are behind in wealth.

The Economist

"We are behind other countries.

The Guardian

We are behind the curve.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we are behind", clearly state what you are behind on (e.g., "We are behind schedule", "We are behind on payments"). This provides context and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "we are behind" when you mean "we support". The phrase "we are behind" means "we are lagging", while "we support" indicates endorsement or backing. For example, say "We support the initiative" instead of the incorrect "We are behind the initiative" when expressing approval.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are behind" primarily functions as a declarative statement, indicating that a group or entity is lagging in progress, achievement, or timing compared to a specific benchmark or expectation. Ludwig examples confirm this, showing its use in contexts ranging from project timelines to competitive standings.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

6%

Less common in

Science

4%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we are behind" is a versatile phrase used to indicate a state of being delayed or lagging compared to an expected standard. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently used, primarily in news and media contexts, but also appearing in business and academic settings. When using the phrase, be sure to specify what you are behind on for clarity. Remember that the phrase conveys a sense of concern or acknowledgment of a problem requiring action. The phrase is generally neutral in register and can be used in both formal and informal situations. Be careful not to confuse its meaning with expressing support or endorsement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are lagging

This alternative directly replaces "behind" with "lagging", maintaining a very similar meaning of falling behind in progress.

we are falling behind

This alternative adds emphasis on the action of falling behind, suggesting a more dynamic situation.

we are running late

This alternative focuses specifically on timeliness, implying that you are late for a scheduled event or deadline.

we are delayed

This term conveys a similar message, suggesting a temporary suspension or postponement.

we are not on schedule

A more formal way of saying that the project/task isn't meeting the planned timeframe.

we are off track

This suggests that you are deviating from the intended course or plan, not necessarily related to time.

we are trailing

Implies being behind in a competitive setting, such as a race or game.

we haven't caught up

This alternative indicates an effort to reach a certain level or standard that hasn't been achieved yet.

we are in arrears

This term is more formal and refers to being late with payments or obligations.

we are deficient

This implies a lack or shortage in some area, suggesting a broader sense of inadequacy.

FAQs

What does it mean when someone says "we are behind"?

Saying "we are behind" generally means that progress is slower than expected, or that a deadline is not being met. It indicates a state of lagging or being delayed.

What can I say instead of "we are behind"?

You can use alternatives like "we are lagging", "we are falling behind", or "we are delayed" depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "we are behind schedule"?

Yes, "we are behind schedule" is grammatically correct and commonly used to indicate that something is not progressing as planned and is running late.

What's the difference between "we are behind" and "we are behind schedule"?

"We are behind" is a general statement indicating a delay or lag, while "we are behind schedule" is more specific, meaning that progress is slower than planned according to a predetermined timetable.