we are duty-bound to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are duty-bound to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a moral or legal obligation to perform a certain action or fulfill a responsibility. Example: "As citizens, we are duty-bound to uphold the laws of our country and contribute to the welfare of our community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

"We are duty-bound to succeed," France's President, François Hollande, has declared.

The New Yorker

Even 1989's edition featured what we are duty-bound to call the "powerhouse stylings" of Bros's Luke Goss.

The Guardian - Music

We are duty-bound to refine our systems and we will continue to do this at all our sites".

The Guardian - Business

We are duty-bound to work with Ericsson on an exit arrangement that both the tournament and Ericsson are comfortable with.

The New York Times - Sports

We clinicians need to keep an open mind, but we are duty-bound to recommend only things for which there is solidly studied evidence.

Harvard University

We are duty-bound to reach them and maximize the likelihood not only of their survival but also of their success.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

These violations are fueled by a now-widespread mentality that derides individualism and claims that we're duty-bound to help strangers, that we're "our brother's keeper," and that those with less are "entitled" to free goods legally and electorally fenced by corrupt politicians.

Forbes

We must thoroughly understand the rule of law, we must rehabilitate areas of our jurisprudence that deprive us of lawful rule and we must insist that judges are duty-bound to ensure that the reason in our law is not trumped by mere will.

Huffington Post

Most journalists are duty-bound to appear in embarrassing photographs.

The Guardian

That's what prosecutors are duty-bound to do in the first instance".

The New Yorker

That doesn't mean you are duty-bound to use homemade broth.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context and audience when using this phrase. It is relatively formal, so it may not be appropriate for casual conversation or informal writing.

Common error

Avoid using "we are duty-bound to" in casual conversations or informal writing where a simpler phrase like "we should" or "we need to" would suffice. Overusing formal language can make your communication sound stilted or unnatural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are duty-bound to" functions as a declarative statement expressing a strong obligation or commitment. Ludwig provides examples showing its use across various contexts, affirming its role in conveying a firm sense of responsibility.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

14%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Science

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we are duty-bound to" is a phrase used to express a strong sense of obligation, commitment or responsibility. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used in various contexts, including news, academia, and formal communications. While versatile, it's best suited for situations where emphasizing a binding obligation is important. Alternative phrases include "we are obligated to" or "we have a responsibility to". When writing, it's recommended to consider your audience and context to ensure the level of formality is appropriate. Therefore "we are duty-bound to" can be an impactful addition to vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is our duty to

Directly states the obligation as a matter of duty.

we are obligated to

Emphasizes a formal or legal obligation.

we are under an obligation to

A more formal way of expressing obligation.

we are compelled to

Suggests a strong internal or external pressure to act.

we are required to

Indicates a necessity or requirement, often by rule or law.

we are bound to

Implies a promise or commitment that must be honored.

we have a responsibility to

Highlights the moral or ethical aspect of the obligation.

we are morally obliged to

Explicitly frames the obligation in moral terms.

we are honor-bound to

Suggests that the obligation stems from a sense of honor or integrity.

we are committed to

Highlights a strong dedication or pledge towards a specific cause or action.

FAQs

How to use "we are duty-bound to" in a sentence?

Use "we are duty-bound to" when expressing a strong sense of obligation or commitment. For example, "As citizens, "we are duty-bound to" uphold the laws of our country".

What can I say instead of "we are duty-bound to"?

You can use alternatives like "we are obligated to", "we are required to", or "we have a responsibility to" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "we are duty-bound to" formal or informal?

"We are duty-bound to" is generally considered a formal phrase. It is suitable for professional, academic, or official contexts where a strong sense of obligation needs to be conveyed. In informal settings, simpler alternatives might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "we are duty-bound to" and "we should"?

"We are duty-bound to" implies a stronger sense of obligation than "we should". While "we should" suggests a recommendation or suggestion, ""we are duty-bound to"" indicates a moral, ethical, or legal imperative.