we are not allowed

USAGE SUMMARY

The sentence "we are not allowed" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in any context where you need to express the idea that something is prohibited. For example: We are not allowed to eat in the library.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

We are not allowed to speak.

The New York Times

And we are not allowed many conveniences.

The Guardian

"We are not allowed to talk while we are working.

The Guardian

We are not allowed to go and see him.

The Guardian

In reality, we are not allowed out after dark.

The Guardian

"We are not allowed to do sting operations.

The New York Times

It means we are not allowed to care".

The Guardian

"We are not allowed to talk about the costs.

MIT Technology Review

We are not allowed to ride a horse.

The Guardian

"We are not allowed to talk to them.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

"We are not allowing math," say we.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we are not allowed", ensure the context clearly indicates who is imposing the restriction. For instance, specify 'We are not allowed by the company to...' instead of simply stating 'We are not allowed...'

Common error

Avoid using "we are not allowed" without specifying who is doing the allowing or disallowing. Clarity is key; otherwise, the statement lacks impact and can be confusing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are not allowed" functions as a declarative statement expressing a prohibition or lack of permission. It indicates that a specific action or activity is restricted by an external authority or rule. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is correct and suitable for various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

13%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "we are not allowed" is a common and grammatically sound way to express a prohibition or lack of permission. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability across various contexts. Predominantly found in News & Media sources, it also appears in scientific and formal business settings. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying who or what is imposing the restriction. Alternatives like "we are prohibited" or "we are forbidden" can be used for a more formal tone, while "we can't" offers a more informal option. Remember to avoid vagueness and clearly state the source of the restriction for maximum impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are prohibited

Formal synonym indicating a strict ban.

we are forbidden

Emphasizes a strong, often official, prohibition.

we are not permitted

Similar to "allowed" but slightly more formal.

we must not

Expresses obligation not to do something.

we are restricted from

Focuses on the limitation imposed.

it is not permissible for us

Formal and emphasizes lack of permission.

we lack the authorization

Highlights the absence of official approval.

we can't

Informal contraction expressing inability due to rules.

we have no right

Indicates a lack of entitlement or privilege.

it's against the rules for us

Highlights the rules being violated.

FAQs

How can I use "we are not allowed" in a sentence?

Use "we are not allowed" to indicate a prohibition or lack of permission. For example, "We are not allowed to use personal devices during work hours."

What can I say instead of "we are not allowed"?

You can use alternatives like "we are prohibited", "we are forbidden", or "we must not" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "we are not allow"?

No, "we are not allow" is grammatically incorrect. The correct form is "we are not allowed", using the past participle of the verb "allow".

What's the difference between "we are not allowed" and "we are not permitted"?

While similar, "we are not "permitted"" often implies a more formal or official prohibition than "we are not allowed".