we are honoured

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are honoured" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to express gratitude or appreciation for a privilege or recognition received. Example: "We are honoured to receive this award for our contributions to the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We are honoured that she will participate in our celebrations".

Independent

We are honoured to have him perform at Womad in the UK for the first time".

The Guardian - Music

Even though we are honoured by this, the reality is different.

The Guardian - Opinion

"He's a fantastic player, we are honoured to have him and he is definitely the level of Arsenal players.

The Guardian - Sport

So we are honoured to have our photo taken with him - even if he has turned his back on us.

The Guardian - Books

"We are honoured to provide the universal service to more than 29m addresses across the UK," she said.

The Guardian

"We are honoured that [Fuller] wants to take 'our baby' to the next international level," he said.

The Guardian

"I just want to remind my dear friends in the Parliamentary Labour Party that we are honoured to be members of Parliament," he says.

Independent

It's a vital piece of work and we are honoured to bring it afresh to a new generation of theatregoers with tickets starting at just £5".

The Guardian

"We are honoured to celebrate the unique status of Thriller in gold & platinum history," association chairman and CEO Cary Sherman said in a statement.

The Guardian - Music

Brin and Wojcicki said in a statement: "Scientists should be celebrated as heroes, and we are honoured to be part of today's celebration".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When following "we are honoured" with an infinitive verb, be sure to include 'to'. For example: "We are honoured to accept this award."

Common error

Avoid using "we are honoured" in situations where a simple 'thank you' would suffice. Overusing it can make your expression seem insincere or formulaic. Reserve it for situations where there is an actual recognition or special privilege.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are honoured" functions as an expression of gratitude or appreciation. It typically introduces a statement acknowledging a privilege, award, invitation, or recognition. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is widely used and grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Formal & Business

22%

Science

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "we are honoured" is a widely used and grammatically sound expression of gratitude and appreciation. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's suitable for formal contexts, particularly in news, business, and official communications. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the level of recognition being acknowledged to maintain sincerity. Alternatives like "we are grateful" or "we are privileged" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Always consider the American vs British spelling (honored vs honoured) in relation to your target audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we appreciate the honour

Directly acknowledges the honour being bestowed, emphasizing appreciation.

we regard it as an honour

Formal way to state that something is considered a great privilege.

we are privileged

Expresses a sense of being fortunate or having a special opportunity, similar to being honoured.

we are grateful

Indicates thankfulness, focusing on appreciation for something received.

we are thankful

Similar to 'grateful', expressing thanks for a specific benefit or kindness.

we are delighted

Conveys pleasure and joy, often used when receiving good news or an opportunity.

we are humbled

Emphasizes a feeling of modesty and respect in response to an honour.

we are pleased

Shows satisfaction and approval, often in a more formal context.

we are proud

Expresses a sense of satisfaction and dignity in being associated with something.

we value this recognition

Highlights the worth and importance of the acknowledgement received.

FAQs

What does "we are honoured" mean?

The phrase "we are honoured" expresses a feeling of deep gratitude, appreciation, and respect for something that has been given or offered. It is often used when receiving an award, invitation, or recognition.

When is it appropriate to use "we are honoured"?

It's appropriate to use "we are honoured" in formal contexts when expressing sincere appreciation for a significant privilege, recognition, or opportunity. Avoid using it in casual situations where a simple 'thank you' would be sufficient.

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

You can use alternatives like "we are grateful", "we are privileged", or "we appreciate the honor" depending on the specific context.

Is "we are honored" (American spelling) also correct?

Yes, "we are honored" is the American English spelling of the phrase and is perfectly acceptable in American contexts. Both "we are honoured" (British spelling) and "we are honored" are grammatically sound, but use the spelling appropriate to your audience.