we are complacent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are complacent" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of self-satisfaction or a lack of awareness regarding potential dangers or deficiencies. Example: "In today's fast-paced world, we are complacent about the risks of cyber threats, believing that our current security measures are sufficient."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

This is insidious, and if we are complacent about it it will become the norm.

The Guardian

Having grown fat in front of our televisions, sated by wondrous deeds, we are complacent.

The Guardian - Sport

It is not something we are complacent about but the focus of our efforts is the younger generation.

The Guardian

"But once it happens, you begin to think that maybe we are so far north, so white, so isolated from many communities' experiences that we are complacent".

The New York Times

Ginny Clarke, who chaired the other working group and who is the highways agency's chief highways engineer, said: "The tragic accident at Selby was an extremely rare event but this does not mean that we are complacent".

The Guardian

"These types of incidents are extremely rare but this does not mean that we are complacent.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

"We were complacent about our own market.

The New York Times - Tech

I don't feel like we're complacent.

The New York Times - Sports

"It's easy to say we were complacent or whatever.

The New York Times - Sports

"I don't think we were complacent," he said.

The Guardian - Sport

"I think we were complacent in a lot of things.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we are complacent", ensure the context clearly indicates what potential risks or problems are being ignored. This provides a specific focus and emphasizes the need for action.

Common error

Avoid using "we are complacent" without specifying the area of concern. This can make the statement vague and less impactful. Instead, provide concrete examples of the issues being overlooked.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are complacent" functions as a statement expressing a state of being, specifically, a state of self-satisfaction coupled with a lack of awareness of potential problems or dangers. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "we are complacent" is a grammatically sound way to express that a group is exhibiting self-satisfaction and a lack of awareness regarding potential risks or deficiencies. As Ludwig AI confirms, the expression is correct and usable, appearing across diverse contexts, particularly in news and media. While not extremely frequent, it's a recognizable expression. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the area where vigilance is lacking, thereby heightening the statement's impact and urging proactive engagement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are too comfortable

Focuses on the level of comfort as the reason for inaction.

we are resting on our laurels

Emphasizes past achievements leading to current inaction.

we are taking things for granted

Highlights a lack of appreciation for current conditions.

we are not vigilant enough

Underscores a lack of watchfulness or alertness.

we are being neglectful

Focuses on the act of neglecting important duties or concerns.

we are underestimating the risk

Highlights a misjudgment of potential dangers.

we are not paying attention

Emphasizes a lack of focus on important matters.

we are insensitive to the issue

Indicates a lack of awareness or concern for a specific problem.

we are failing to act

Focuses on the inaction resulting from complacency.

we lack a sense of urgency

Highlights the absence of prompt action when needed.

FAQs

What does it mean to say "we are complacent"?

Saying "we are complacent" means that a group is showing a sense of contentment or self-satisfaction, often without being aware of potential dangers or problems that could arise. It suggests a lack of vigilance or concern about future issues.

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

You can use "we are complacent" to express concern about a group's lack of awareness or action regarding a particular issue. For example, "We are complacent about cybersecurity threats and need to improve our defenses."

What can I say instead of "we are complacent"?

You can use alternatives like "we are too comfortable", "we are resting on our laurels", or "we are taking things for granted" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "we are complacent" or "we are being complacent"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "we are complacent" is more direct and commonly used. "We are being complacent" might be used to emphasize the ongoing nature of the complacency, but is slightly less frequent.