we are forced

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are forced" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a situation where someone has no choice but to take a certain action or make a decision due to external circumstances. Example: "Due to the unexpected circumstances, we are forced to cancel the event."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We are forced to steer by guesswork.

The New York Times - Magazine

"We are forced to buy exposure".

The New York Times

We won't go unless we are forced.

The Guardian

We are forced to lie to doctors.

The Guardian - Opinion

We are forced to be primitive".

The Guardian

We are forced by the writing to share Lenz's instability.

The New Yorker

"Today, we are forced to choose between Christianity or Hinduism.

The New York Times

"We are forced to woo because none dare woo us".

The New York Times

So we are forced to work and live underground".

The New York Times

So we are forced to take the high road.

The New York Times

"So we are forced to have a meat shop".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure the context makes it clear who is doing the forcing. If it's not obvious, explicitly state the source of the compulsion (e.g. "We are forced by budget cuts...").

Common error

Avoid using "we are forced" in a way that obscures who or what is exerting the force. Vague wording can make your writing seem weak or evasive.

Linguistic Context

"We are forced" functions as a verb phrase indicating obligation or compulsion. It shows that the subject (we) is not acting out of free will but is being compelled by external circumstances. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

38%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we are forced" is a grammatically sound and widely used expression to convey a lack of choice due to external pressures. Ludwig AI provides numerous examples showing its usage in various contexts, particularly news, science, and formal communication. While versatile, it's crucial to consider the context and potential negative connotations and choose the best wording for the communication purpose. Consider alternatives such as "we have no choice" or "we are compelled" for nuanced meanings or to adjust the tone. Be mindful of the potential ambiguity of who or what is doing the forcing to guarantee a clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we have no choice

Emphasizes the lack of alternatives, more direct.

we are compelled

Highlights the feeling of obligation, slightly more formal.

we are obligated

Focuses on a duty or requirement, even more formal.

we are required

Stresses an external requirement, neutral tone.

we must

Expresses necessity or strong recommendation, simple and direct.

we are made

Implies external influence or manipulation.

we are made to

Emphasizes external control, slightly less direct.

we are obliged to

Formal alternative, emphasizes a sense of duty.

we are under pressure

Highlights external stress and influence.

it is incumbent upon us

Very formal, emphasizes a moral or legal duty.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "we are forced" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives such as "we are compelled", "we are obligated", or "it is incumbent upon us" depending on the specific context.

Is there a difference between "we are forced" and "we have to"?

While both phrases indicate a lack of choice, "we are forced" often implies a stronger external pressure or a more negative consequence if the action is not taken. "We have to" is generally more neutral.

What kind of situations warrant using "we are forced"?

Use "we are forced" when describing situations where external factors leave you with no real alternative. This could be due to legal requirements, financial constraints, or other unavoidable circumstances.

Can "we are forced" be used in a positive context?

While uncommon, "we are forced" can be used in a positive context if the outcome of the enforced action is beneficial. However, be mindful of the potentially negative connotation and consider whether a more positive phrasing would be more suitable.