we are challenged

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are challenged" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express that a person or group is facing difficulties or obstacles in a particular situation. Example: "In today's fast-paced world, we are challenged to adapt quickly to new technologies and changing market demands."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We are challenged to do better; to be better.

The Guardian

We are challenged to live up to this principle.

The Economist

Today we are challenged to end poverty and all its attendant suffering.

Independent

We are challenged by the New Generation Network's manifesto to "to set a different agenda to develop community cohesion".

The Guardian - Opinion

We are challenged to defend the fantasy we often tell ourselves about such institutions: that their storehouses of human achievement belong to, and represent, all of us.

The New Yorker

He addressed the congregation at the National Cathedral in Washington, DC, saying: "We are challenged to rid our nation and the world of poverty.

The Guardian - Opinion

It provides the fundamental basis upon which we are challenged at a policy level, at a programs level, and at a people level.

The Guardian - Opinion

"But we are challenged to tell the story of why in Los Angeles in 2010 this is absolutely a great investment for kids and families.

The New York Times

"We are quite landlocked in the city of Berkeley, so each time another national project comes along, we are challenged where to place it," he said.

The New York Times

"But when we do art history and theory at NAFA, we are challenged to understand what is going on rather just on just memorizing events.

The New York Times

We are challenged to draw others into our communities because the values we hold and the lives we live attract them, answer the deepest human need and offer a vision of human flourishing.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we are challenged" when you want to convey a sense of shared responsibility or a collective effort in overcoming an obstacle. It implies that the challenge is significant and requires a determined response.

Common error

Avoid using "we are challenged" excessively in writing where active voice would be more direct and engaging. Consider alternatives like "we must challenge" or "we face the challenge" for a stronger impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are challenged" primarily functions as a statement indicating that a group or entity is facing a difficult or demanding situation. As noted by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct. It sets the stage for addressing the nature of the challenge and potential responses.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the expression "we are challenged" is a versatile phrase used to acknowledge difficulties and inspire collective action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and commonly used across diverse contexts, particularly in news, science, and formal communications. While the phrase effectively conveys a sense of shared responsibility, it's wise to balance its usage with more active constructions for a stronger, more engaging writing style. Remember to use the most accurate alternative and rephrase when necessary. Overall, understand that "we are challenged" effectively sets the stage for further explanation and responsive action.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we face a challenge

This alternative uses a more direct verb, "face", instead of the passive "are challenged", maintaining a similar meaning.

we are confronted

This phrase emphasizes the act of being faced with a difficult situation or problem.

we are tasked

This alternative focuses on the assignment of a specific duty or responsibility.

we are called upon

This phrase highlights a request or expectation to do something.

we are up against

This alternative suggests a struggle or opposition that needs to be overcome.

we must overcome

This phrase emphasizes the necessity to prevail over difficulties.

we have to contend with

This alternative highlights the need to deal with or manage a difficult situation.

we are impelled

This suggests being driven or compelled to act, highlighting the motivational aspect of a challenge.

we find ourselves tested

This emphasizes the experience of being put to the test, highlighting the evaluation aspect of a challenge.

we are stimulated

It describes how difficulties give impetus and incentive to work harder.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "we are challenged" to sound more proactive?

You can use phrases like "we face a challenge", "we must overcome", or "we are tackling" depending on the specific context to convey a sense of taking initiative.

Is "we are challenged by" grammatically correct?

Yes, "we are challenged by" is grammatically correct. It indicates who or what is presenting the challenge. For example, "We are challenged by the increasing demands of the market."

What's the difference between "we are challenged" and "we are facing challenges"?

"We are challenged" implies a specific challenge or a general state of being challenged, while "we are facing challenges" suggests that there are multiple challenges being confronted simultaneously. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize a single, significant obstacle or a multitude of difficulties.

When is it better to use "we are challenged" instead of "we are facing"?

Use "we are challenged" when you want to emphasize the significance or demanding nature of the situation. "We are facing" is a more neutral statement of acknowledging difficulties, whereas "we are challenged" suggests a call to action or a need for resilience.