we are keen

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'we are keen' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is an expression of enthusiasm, eagerness, or interest in doing something. For example: "We are keen to start working on this project right away."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We are keen to return to negotiations.

Independent

We are keen to get something going".

The Guardian - Sport

We are keen to assist the club with establishing this".

Independent

We are keen to discuss the major issues".

The New York Times

It is an issue we are keen to investigate.

The Guardian

We are keen to learn from these too.

The Guardian - Opinion

"We have a good relationship with EDF and we are keen to ensure that will continue".

Independent

We are keen to reflect the vibrancy, diversity and beauty of Argentina".

The Guardian

"We are keen to spread our ideas and our values," he said.

The New York Times

We are keen for the financial restructuring to continue in an orderly manner".

Independent

"We are keen to have it built, and agree it should happen," he added.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we are keen" to express genuine enthusiasm or strong interest, especially when initiating or supporting an action or idea. This conveys a positive and proactive stance.

Common error

While versatile, "we are keen" might sound slightly informal in highly formal contexts. Consider alternatives like "we are interested", "we are desirous", or "we are eager" for a more professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of the phrase "we are keen" is to act as a subject complement, specifically an adjectival phrase, describing the state or feeling of the subject ('we'). As Ludwig AI indicates, it expresses enthusiasm, eagerness, or interest.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Science

21%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "we are keen" is a versatile expression used to convey enthusiasm, eagerness, or strong interest. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable in various contexts, including news, science, and business communications. While generally neutral in tone, it may be perceived as slightly informal in highly formal settings. Consider alternatives like "we are eager" or "we are interested" for a more professional tone. The phrase is most frequently found in news and media sources, followed by scientific publications, indicating its broad applicability across different writing styles and subject matters. Overall, "we are keen" is a useful and effective way to express a proactive and positive stance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are eager

Indicates a strong desire or enthusiasm, similar to "we are keen" but perhaps implying a slightly higher level of anticipation.

we are enthusiastic

Emphasizes a feeling of excitement and strong interest; slightly more emotive than "we are keen".

we are interested

A more general expression of interest, less intense than "we are keen".

we are desirous

A formal way of expressing a wish or longing for something; "we are keen" is more commonly used in everyday contexts.

we are inclined

Suggests a tendency or willingness towards a particular course of action; less direct than "we are keen".

we are disposed

Similar to "we are inclined", indicating a willingness or readiness.

we are set

Implies readiness and preparation; "we are keen" focuses more on the desire aspect.

we are willing

Indicates a readiness to do something if needed, less proactive than "we are keen".

we are game

An informal expression of willingness to try something new or challenging.

we are anxious

Expresses a feeling of worry or nervousness, and not really interchangeable with "we are keen" unless referring to eagerness.

FAQs

What does "we are keen" mean?

The phrase "we are keen" indicates that a group is enthusiastic, eager, or very interested in something. It expresses a strong desire to participate or be involved.

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

You can use alternatives like "we are eager", "we are enthusiastic", or "we are interested" depending on the context.

Is "we are keen on" the same as "we are keen to"?

While similar, "we are keen on" typically refers to a general interest or preference, while "we are keen to" usually expresses eagerness to perform a specific action. For example, "We are keen on this proposal" versus "We are keen to implement this proposal".

When is it appropriate to use "we are keen" in writing?

The phrase "we are keen" is appropriate in a wide range of writing contexts, including business communications, news articles, and scientific papers. However, it's best to avoid it in very formal or academic writing where more formal alternatives might be preferred.