we are compelled

USAGE SUMMARY

"we are compelled" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe an imposed sense of obligation or inevitability. For example: "We are compelled to accept the reality of climate change."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

We are compelled to think outside of the box.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

"We are compelled to plead and ask for a public outcry," she wrote.

The New York Times

Thus, we are compelled to conclude that either claim would support the jury's verdict.

Harvard University

We are compelled to undergo the loss of what we loved about Paradise Lost.

Yale University

In Britain, in 2014, we are compelled to debate whether people should work for free.

The Guardian - Opinion

Thus, we are compelled to share that love in both word and deed.

The New York Times

I believe that by looking or speaking out, we are compelled to maybe act.

The Guardian - Film

We don't like it, we don't want it, but we are forced, we are compelled to do it".

The New York Times

We barely regulate financial markets for years, thinking regulation oppressive, until we are compelled to nationalize private firms.

The New York Times

However, we are compelled to address certain reckless and false allegations concerning the Yankees' role in this matter.

The Guardian - Sport

It is never a closed subject, but instead a matter we are compelled to go on arguing about.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we are compelled", consider whether a more precise verb might better convey the nature of the obligation. For instance, "required", "forced", or "obliged" could be more suitable depending on the specific context.

Common error

While grammatically correct, using "we are compelled" in casual conversation can sound overly formal or unnatural. Opt for simpler alternatives like "we have to" or "we need to" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are compelled" functions as a declarative statement expressing obligation or necessity. It indicates that the subject is under a strong external or internal pressure to act in a certain way. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Academia

24%

Science

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we are compelled" is a versatile phrase used to express a strong sense of obligation or necessity. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage in formal writing. It is most common in News & Media, Academia, and Scientific contexts. While grammatically sound, it can sound overly formal in casual settings. Consider alternatives like "we have to" or "we need to" for informal conversations. When precision is crucial, think of the range of possible alternatives like "we are obliged", "we are forced", or "we must".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are obliged

Uses a direct synonym for "compelled", indicating a formal or legal obligation.

we are forced to

Highlights the external pressure or coercion that leads to the action.

we feel obliged

Replaces "compelled" with a synonym emphasizing a sense of moral or social duty.

we are bound to

Suggests a sense of duty or promise, implying a pre-existing commitment.

we are under an obligation

Highlights a formal or legal responsibility driving our actions.

we have no choice but to

Indicates that there are no other options available, emphasizing a lack of alternatives.

we are duty-bound

Highlights a moral or ethical imperative influencing our actions.

it is incumbent upon us

Emphasizes the responsibility and duty to take a specific action.

we are driven to

Emphasizes an inner force or strong motivation as the primary driver.

we must

Expresses a strong sense of necessity or obligation in a concise manner.

FAQs

How can I use "we are compelled" in a sentence?

Use "we are compelled" to indicate a strong sense of obligation or necessity. For example, "Due to the overwhelming evidence, "we are compelled" to reconsider our initial assessment."

What are some alternatives to "we are compelled"?

Alternatives include "we are obliged", "we are forced", or "we must", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "we are compelled" formal or informal?

"We are compelled" is generally considered a more formal expression. In informal contexts, phrases like "we have to" or "we need to" might be more appropriate.

What is the difference between "we are compelled" and "we are obligated"?

While similar, "we are compelled" often suggests a stronger external force or circumstance driving the obligation, whereas "we are obligated" can imply a moral or legal duty. You could also use the alternatives "we are required", "we are bound" or "we are duty-bound".