we are laying

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are laying" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of placing something down or establishing something, often in a figurative sense. Example: "As part of the project, we are laying the groundwork for future developments."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

"We are laying the groundwork now," Ms. Amato said.

The New York Times

We are laying out ways to support his campaign".

The New York Times

"We are laying down our lives," Inspector General Khan said in an interview in October.

The New York Times

We are laying the cornerstone for the restructuring of the entire power system".

The New York Times

Adrian Belew's Men in Helicopters provides an answer: we are laying the wilderness and its wildlife to waste.

The Guardian - Music

"It is not an easy solution, but we are laying the brickwork for a much better Asbury Park school system".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

We all hope we can keep it together, in one piece, even after we are laid to rest.

Vice

We were laying people off.

The New York Times

"We were laying a foundation.

The New York Times

We were laying some wood out there".

The New York Times - Sports

Now, he said, "we're laying a different cornerstone".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we are laying", ensure that the object being laid (e.g., groundwork, foundation) is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

A common mistake is using "lying" instead of "laying". "Laying" requires a direct object (e.g., "we are laying the foundation"), whereas "lying" refers to reclining or being in a horizontal position and does not take a direct object (e.g., "we are lying down"). Be mindful of the correct verb to use based on the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are laying" functions as a verb phrase within a sentence, typically acting as the main verb in the present continuous tense. According to Ludwig AI, this construction indicates an ongoing action of establishing or putting something in place. It often introduces a clause specifying what is being established.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

18%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we are laying" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that indicates the ongoing action of establishing or preparing something. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its prevalence across various contexts, including news, science, and business. While generally neutral in register, the phrase often conveys a sense of progress and future potential. It's important to distinguish it from "we are lying," which has a different meaning related to reclining. Common alternatives include "we are establishing", "we are preparing", and "we are setting up". By avoiding common errors and considering the context, writers can effectively use "we are laying" to communicate the idea of building a foundation for future endeavors.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are establishing

Replaces "laying" with a more formal verb, emphasizing the act of setting up.

we are setting up

Uses a phrasal verb to convey the idea of preparing or arranging.

we are preparing

Focuses on the preparatory aspect of the action.

we are building

Suggests a more concrete or constructive action.

we are constructing

Similar to building but more formal.

we are implementing

Emphasizes the action of putting a plan into effect.

we are initiating

Highlights the beginning or starting of a process.

we are forming

Suggests the creation of something new.

we are developing

Focuses on the gradual growth or improvement of something.

we are founding

Indicates the establishment of an institution or organization.

FAQs

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

The phrase "we are laying" is used to describe the act of establishing or setting something up. For instance, "We are laying the groundwork for a new project" means that steps are being taken to prepare for the project's future success.

What's the difference between "we are laying" and "we are lying"?

"We are laying" implies placing or establishing something, such as "we are laying the foundation". On the other hand, "we are lying" means reclining or resting in a horizontal position.

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

Alternatives to "we are laying" include "we are establishing", "we are setting up", or "we are preparing", depending on the specific context.

Is "we are laying" formal or informal?

The phrase "we are laying" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Its suitability depends more on the surrounding language and the overall tone of the communication.