we are flying

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are flying" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the action of being in flight, either literally or metaphorically, such as in a discussion about travel or a feeling of exhilaration. Example: "As we are flying over the mountains, the view is absolutely breathtaking."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

We are flying!

The New York Times

"We are flying them ourselves".

The New York Times

"I don't think we are flying.

The Economist

"We are flying in international airspace and over international waters.

The New York Times

Gudmundsson (right): "We are flying Boeing 727's.

The New York Times - Magazine

We are flying blind into our environmental future.

The New York Times

"To use a bad pun, we are flying high".

The Guardian - Tech

The travelling public need assurance that the aircraft we are flying in are safe.

Independent

He added: "We are flying aircraft on an average flight time of one hour around Europe.

The Economist

And, in that moment, we miss, and we find that we are flying.

The New Yorker

One minute we are flying over tilled fields, the next gazing into an aquarium.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we are flying" to describe the literal action of air travel. It can also be used metaphorically to express success or rapid progress.

Common error

Avoid using "we are flying" metaphorically in contexts where the image of flight is inappropriate or doesn't resonate with the intended meaning. Choose a more fitting metaphor if necessary.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are flying" functions primarily as a present continuous verb phrase, describing an action that is currently in progress. As Ludwig AI indicates, this can be both literal (referring to air travel) and metaphorical (indicating rapid progress or a risky endeavor).

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "we are flying" is a versatile expression, commonly used to describe the literal act of traveling by air or, metaphorically, to convey a sense of rapid progress, achievement, or even uncertainty. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used in various contexts. Its neutral register and frequent appearance in news and media outlets highlight its broad applicability. While literal usage is straightforward, metaphorical applications, such as "we are flying blind", require careful consideration to ensure relevance and resonance with the intended meaning. Understanding these nuances allows for effective and precise communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are airborne

Replaces "flying" with a more technical term for being in the air.

we are in flight

Offers a slightly more formal alternative to "flying".

we are soaring

Implies a sense of achievement or success, similar to flying high metaphorically.

we are traveling

Broader term indicating movement, not necessarily by air.

we are cruising

Suggests a smooth and effortless journey.

we are voyaging

Implies a long and adventurous journey.

we are progressing rapidly

Focuses on the speed of advancement rather than the mode of transport.

we are making headway

Highlights progress against obstacles.

we are advancing swiftly

Emphasizes the quick pace of forward movement.

we are moving forward

A general statement of advancement, applicable in various contexts.

FAQs

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

You can use "we are flying" to describe the action of being in an aircraft, as in, "We are flying to Venice". It can also be used metaphorically to express success or rapid progress.

What are some alternatives to "we are flying"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "we are traveling", "we are soaring", or "we are airborne".

Is it correct to use "we are flying" in a business context?

Yes, it's correct. While more formal language may sometimes be preferred, "we are flying" can be used in business contexts, especially when communicating progress or movement towards a goal. For example, "We are flying blind".

What does it mean to say "we are flying blind"?

Saying "we are flying blind" means that we are proceeding without sufficient information or understanding. It implies a risky or uncertain situation.