we are blown about

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are blown about" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where people feel disoriented or influenced by external forces, often metaphorically referring to emotions or circumstances. Example: "In times of uncertainty, we are blown about by the winds of change, unsure of which direction to take."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

We are blown about.

The Guardian - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Concrete blocks from the building were blown about, some of which struck cars in a nearby parking lot.

Wikipedia

The lustful are blown about in a whirlwind; the violent boil in a river of blood.

The New York Times

She argues that women who succumb to sensibility are "blown about by every momentary gust of feeling" and because they are "the prey of their senses" they cannot think rationally.

Wikipedia

She argues that women who succumb to sensibility are "blown about by every momentary gust of feeling"; because these women are "the prey of their senses", they cannot think rationally.

Wikipedia

"It was blowing about 40, 50 miles an hour.

The New York Times - Sports

The wind was blowing about 20 miles an hour, the water was covered with whitecaps, and I was alone, which should have suggested something to me.

The New York Times - Arts

So I ended up with this coverall stuff, which is perfect — except on a windy day on location in Croatia, where everything's blowing about.

The New Yorker

The problem is we are blowing through about 31GtCO2 a year, meaning we will spend our budget in about 15-25 years. 15-25 years

Huffington Post

Without the strength of our convictions to give weight and provide anchorage, may we not be blown about lightly by the breeze of any whim or fad?

The Guardian

His apartment furniture had been blown about by the blast.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we are blown about" to convey a sense of being disoriented or strongly influenced by external forces, whether literal (like wind) or metaphorical (like opinions or events).

Common error

While appropriate in many contexts, avoid using "we are blown about" excessively in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise and nuanced language to convey the specific type of influence or movement being described.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are blown about" primarily functions as a verb phrase that describes a state of being influenced, moved, or disoriented by external forces. It indicates a passive experience, where the subject ("we") is acted upon rather than initiating the action. As stated by Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we are blown about" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe a state of being influenced or moved by external forces. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While versatile, it's best suited for neutral to informal contexts and should be used judiciously in highly formal settings. Consider alternatives like "we are swayed" or "we are influenced" for more nuanced expressions. Its prevalence in news and media sources highlights its relevance in conveying current events and societal trends.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are swayed

Focuses on being influenced or persuaded, rather than physically moved or disoriented.

we are influenced

Emphasizes the impact of external factors on opinions or decisions.

we are tossed around

Implies a more forceful and turbulent movement or experience.

we are swept away

Suggests being overwhelmed or completely carried away by something.

we are adrift

Implies a lack of direction or purpose, similar to being blown about aimlessly.

we are manipulated

Highlights external control or influence, often with a negative connotation.

we are controlled

Focuses on the aspect of being managed or directed by outside forces.

we are subject to

Highlights vulnerability to external factors or conditions.

we are at the mercy of

Emphasizes a lack of control and dependence on external forces.

we are vulnerable to

Stresses the susceptibility to negative influences or effects.

FAQs

What does "we are blown about" mean?

The phrase "we are blown about" generally means that a group of people is being strongly influenced or moved by external forces or circumstances, often in a way that feels disorienting or lacking in control.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "we are blown about"?

It's appropriate when you want to convey the idea of being tossed around by circumstances or opinions, or when describing a lack of stability or direction due to external influences. Consider using alternatives like "we are swayed" or "we are influenced" depending on the context.

What are some alternatives to "we are blown about"?

Some alternatives include "we are tossed around", "we are swept away", or "we are adrift". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How can I use "we are blown about" in a sentence?

Example: "In times of rapid change, we are blown about by the winds of uncertainty."