we are believing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are believing" is not commonly used in standard written English and may sound awkward to native speakers.
It can be used in contexts where you want to express an ongoing belief or faith in something, but it is more natural to use "we believe" instead. Example: "In these challenging times, we are believing that better days are ahead for our community."

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

"We are believing," the veteran center Jason Arnott said.

The New York Times - Sports

"Because of them, we are believing in ourselves again," said Clark Spencer, a producer of "Wreck-It Ralph," as he accepted the best feature Annie.

The New York Times

"Now we are believing in what we do.

BBC

We are believing we can but if we don't, the most important thing is to get Europe for Southampton".

BBC

"The most pleasing thing is we are believing in making a goal even when the scoreline is bad," Van Gaal said.

BBC

"The most pleasing thing is we are believing in making a goal even when the scoreline is bad," says the Dutchman.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

"We're believing nothing will happen".

The New York Times - Sports

"It's believing we can do it.

BBC

We are a believing nation.

Huffington Post

We are to believe in that inadequacy.

The Guardian - Books

Or so we are to believe.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "we are believing", consider if the simple present "we believe" would be more appropriate. The simple present is often clearer and more concise for expressing general beliefs.

Common error

Avoid using the present continuous tense ("we are believing") when a simple present tense ("we believe") is more suitable. The continuous tense can imply a temporary or ongoing action, which may not be the intended meaning when expressing a belief.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are believing" functions as a verbal phrase expressing an ongoing state of conviction or faith. While grammatically correct as the present continuous of "believe", it's less common than the simple present "we believe", as Ludwig AI confirms. The context often implies a current, active state of holding a particular belief.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

77%

Wiki

8%

Science

6%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we are believing" is grammatically acceptable, as highlighted by Ludwig AI, but less common than the simple present "we believe". It suggests an ongoing process of holding a belief, primarily found in news and media contexts. While technically correct, writers should consider if the simple present offers more clarity and conciseness. Alternative phrases such as "we have faith" or "we are confident" might better suit the intended meaning. When choosing between "we believe" and "we are believing", consider whether you want to emphasize the active and evolving nature of the belief or simply state a general conviction.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we have faith

Replaces the continuous tense with a simple present tense construction emphasizing a general state of belief.

we hold the belief

Substitutes the verb "believe" with a noun phrase and a different verb, "hold", to convey a similar sense of conviction.

we are confident

Expresses a state of assurance and trust, focusing on confidence rather than the act of believing.

we trust

A concise alternative that directly conveys a sense of reliance and faith in something or someone.

we are convinced

Indicates a state of being persuaded or certain about something, rather than an ongoing process of believing.

we are of the opinion

Formalizes the expression, suggesting a considered judgment or viewpoint.

we expect

Focuses on anticipation and expectation, implying a belief in a future outcome.

we anticipate

Similar to "we expect", but often suggests a more formal or deliberate expectation.

we are optimistic

Highlights a positive outlook and belief in a favorable outcome.

we maintain

Suggests a persistent and defended belief, often in the face of opposition or doubt.

FAQs

Is it grammatically correct to say "we are believing"?

While grammatically valid as present continuous, "we are believing" is less common than "we believe". It can sound awkward to native English speakers and is often better replaced with the simple present tense, depending on the context.

When should I use "we are believing" instead of "we believe"?

Use "we are believing" to emphasize the ongoing or developing nature of a belief. However, "we believe" is usually preferable for expressing general or established beliefs. Consider alternatives like "we have faith" or "we are confident" depending on the specific meaning you want to convey.

What are some alternatives to "we are believing"?

Alternatives include "we believe", "we have faith", "we trust", or "we are confident". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to express.

Why does "we are believing" sound less natural than "we believe"?

The verb "believe" is often used to describe a state of mind, which is typically expressed using the simple present tense. Using the present continuous can imply a temporary or evolving belief, which is less common. However, Ludwig AI flags it as acceptable.