we are bound by

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are bound by" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a sense of obligation or responsibility that an individual or group feels towards a certain action or decision. For example, "As members of this organization, we are bound by the code of conduct and must adhere to its guidelines at all times." This sentence shows that the members have a responsibility to follow the code of conduct as it is expected of them. Another example could be, "By signing this contract, we are bound by its terms and conditions." This shows that by signing the contract, the individuals are legally obligated to follow the terms and conditions stated in it. Overall, "we are bound by" can be used in a variety of situations to express a sense of duty or commitment.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

And we are bound by them.

The New York Times - Sports

"Because we are bound by duty.

The New York Times - Books

We are bound by the evidence".

The New Yorker

We are bound by laws.

The New York Times

"We are bound by blood".

The New York Times

We are bound by solemn commitment to defend one another.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

We're bound by it.

The New Yorker

We're bound by the marketplace.

The New York Times

"We were bound by mutual trust".

The New York Times

Despite the all-parties-and-none spectrum of attendance, we were bound by a common passion.

The Guardian - Opinion

"At this point in time we're bound by the State Land Master Plan as it's written," he said, "and we're making our decisions in accordance with the plan".

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we are bound by", ensure clarity about the specific entity or principle that is creating the obligation. Be specific about what is imposing the constraints.

Common error

Avoid using "we are bound by" without specifying what exactly is binding you. Statements like "we are bound by duty" can lack impact without context. Instead, clarify the nature and source of the duty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are bound by" functions as a statement of obligation or constraint. It expresses that a group ("we") is subject to certain rules, duties, or restrictions. As Ludwig AI indicates, it describes a sense of responsibility that an individual or group feels.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "we are bound by" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to convey a sense of obligation, duty, or constraint. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's frequently employed to indicate adherence to rules, laws, or ethical principles. The phrase appears most often in news and media contexts, followed by scientific and formal business environments. When employing this phrase, be sure to specify the exact nature of the binding force for clarity. Alternatives such as "we are obligated by" or "we are compelled by" can be used to express similar meanings with subtle differences in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are obligated by

Replaces "bound" with "obligated", emphasizing a sense of duty or legal requirement.

we are under the obligation of

A more formal and legalistic way of expressing a binding duty.

we are constrained by

Focuses on limitations or restrictions imposed upon a group.

we are compelled by

Highlights an external force or influence that drives the action.

we are adherent to

Highlights a commitment to following a set of rules or beliefs.

we are tied to

Suggests a strong connection or dependency, implying less of a formal obligation.

we are governed by

Emphasizes the rules or principles that dictate actions.

we are subject to

Indicates that a group is governed by or experiences the effects of something.

we are committed to

Suggests a voluntary dedication or pledge.

we are restricted by

Focuses specifically on limitations and barriers.

FAQs

How can I use "we are bound by" in a sentence?

The phrase "we are bound by" indicates an obligation or restriction. For instance, "We are bound by the contract terms" or "We are bound by ethical considerations."

What are some alternatives to "we are bound by"?

Alternatives include phrases like "we are obligated by", "we are compelled by", or "we are required by", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to use "we are bound by" or "we are obligated to"?

Both "we are bound by" and "we are obligated to" express a sense of duty, but "we are bound by" often implies a formal or legal constraint, whereas "we are obligated to" can encompass moral or ethical duties.

Can "we are bound by" be used in both formal and informal contexts?

While generally suitable for formal contexts, "we are bound by" can also appear in less formal settings when discussing commitments or strong connections. However, synonyms like "we are tied to" may fit better in informal usage.