we are failing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are failing" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to someone or a group of people not succeeding in their goals or efforts. For example: "We are failing to make any progress in resolving this issue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Opinion

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

If we fail to support them, we are failing ourselves.

The Guardian

"We have failed with Russia and we are failing with China," he said.

The Guardian

Fail to help children and we are failing not just them but our future.

The Guardian - Opinion

We are failing them.

The New York Times

If so, we are failing shamefully.

Independent

"We are failing this generation, " she said.

The New York Times

Now we are failing the Libyan people.

The New York Times

We are failing these children.

The Guardian - Opinion

So far, we are failing.

The Guardian - Opinion

Clearly, we are failing birthing women.

The Guardian - Opinion

If we do not, we are failing.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "we are failing", be specific about the area or task in which failure is occurring to provide context and clarity. For example, instead of saying "we are failing", specify "we are failing to meet our sales targets".

Common error

Avoid using "we are failing" without providing context or evidence. This can lead to ambiguity and a lack of understanding. Always support your statement with specific examples or data to illustrate the failure.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are failing" functions as a declarative statement expressing a current lack of success or a state of inadequacy. It serves to acknowledge a failure in progress, aligning with Ludwig's finding that the phrase is used to highlight shortcomings or unmet expectations. Examples show it's used to point out where current efforts are not meeting the needed target.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Opinion

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

8%

Academia

6%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we are failing" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression for indicating a current lack of success or progress. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and wide applicability, particularly in news and opinion contexts. For best use, provide specific details about the area of failure to avoid ambiguity. While alternatives like "we are not succeeding" exist, "we are failing" provides a direct and potent acknowledgement of shortcomings, making it suitable for prompting action and accountability. It is a common expression that should be used carefully for maximum impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are not succeeding

Focuses on the lack of positive outcome or accomplishment. It emphasizes the absence of success.

we are falling short

Indicates that efforts are not meeting the required standard or expectation. It underlines a deficiency in performance.

we are coming up short

Similar to "falling short", this highlights a deficiency in achieving a desired goal or target.

we are not measuring up

Highlights a failure to reach a specific benchmark or target. It stresses the inadequacy of current results.

we are not delivering

Emphasizes a failure to provide something promised or expected. It points to a breach of expectation.

we are underperforming

Indicates a performance level below potential or standard. It underlines the gap between actual and expected output.

we are missing the mark

Focuses on inaccuracy or misdirection, indicating that efforts are not aligned with the desired outcome.

we are proving inadequate

Suggests a fundamental inability to meet the demands of a situation. It stresses a lack of necessary competence.

we are deficient

Directly states a lack of essential qualities or elements, emphasizing a significant shortcoming.

we are wanting

Implies a lack of something necessary or desirable, focusing on the absence of required attributes.

FAQs

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

You can use "we are failing" to express a lack of success in a particular area. For example, "We are failing to meet our project deadlines" or "We are failing to address the needs of our customers".

What are some alternatives to saying "we are failing"?

You can use alternatives such as "we are not succeeding", "we are falling short", or "we are underperforming" to express a similar idea.

Is it always negative to say "we are failing"?

Yes, "we are failing" always carries a negative connotation, indicating a lack of success or progress. It's a direct statement of inadequacy in a particular area.

What's the difference between "we are failing" and "we have failed"?

"We are failing" suggests an ongoing process of not succeeding, while "we have failed" implies a completed state of failure. The former indicates a current struggle, whereas the latter signifies a finished unsuccessful attempt.