we are observing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are observing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing an action of watching or monitoring something in real-time or over a period of time. Example: "In our research, we are observing the behavior of the subjects under different conditions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

The observer effect means that whatever we are observing is always shaped by how we choose to observe it.

Huffington Post

"This is what we are observing in China today.

The New York Times

"We are observing the festival in a truly Orthodox style.

The New York Times

Right now, we are observing developments in Syria.

The Washington Post

We are observing that recent droughts are likely to worst on record.

The Guardian

"We are observing it," says Hussain, "as in, we're watching it go by without participating".

The Guardian

Based on these studies, we are observing two aspects of PARP1 in RNA biogenesis.

Nature

For the first time, we are observing the motions of molecular bound to surfaces.

Stanford University

We are observing an overall downward trend in the use of Flash cookies.

University of California, Berkeley

One: We are observing a global crisis of the advanced economies — not only a European crisis.

The New York Times

We are observing the sensitivity of ICA to the dimensionality of final subspace.

Procedia Computer Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we are observing" to introduce empirical findings or ongoing trends based on direct or indirect evidence. It strengthens claims by presenting them as actively witnessed or monitored.

Common error

Avoid using "we are observing" excessively in passive constructions, which can weaken the impact of your writing. Instead, opt for more direct, active voice phrasing where possible to enhance clarity and engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are observing" functions primarily as a declarative statement used to convey that the speaker or writer is currently in the process of watching, noticing, or monitoring something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, highlighting its broad applicability across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we are observing" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase frequently used to express the action of watching or monitoring something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears across a spectrum of contexts, including news, scientific research, and academia, making it suitable for both neutral and formal communication. While it is important to avoid overuse in passive constructions, this phrase serves as an effective way to introduce empirical findings or to preface an analysis based on direct observation. Consider using synonyms like "we are monitoring" or "we are witnessing" to diversify your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are monitoring

Replaces "observing" with "monitoring", emphasizing continuous tracking.

we are witnessing

Substitutes "observing" with "witnessing", highlighting the act of being present while something occurs.

we are noticing

Changes "observing" to "noticing", focusing on becoming aware of something.

we are detecting

Replaces "observing" with "detecting", emphasizing the discovery of something not immediately obvious.

we are analyzing

Substitutes "observing" with "analyzing", shifting the focus to a more detailed examination.

we are tracking

Changes "observing" to "tracking", emphasizing the continuous following of something's progress.

we are examining

Replaces "observing" with "examining", highlighting a closer, more scrutinizing look.

we are inspecting

Substitutes "observing" with "inspecting", focusing on a careful and critical evaluation.

we are assessing

Changes "observing" to "assessing", emphasizing the evaluation of a situation or phenomenon.

we are studying

Replaces "observing" with "studying", highlighting the intent to learn and understand through observation.

FAQs

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

You can use "we are observing" to describe something you are currently watching or monitoring. For example, "We are observing the effects of the new policy on the community."

What is a good alternative to "we are observing"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "we are monitoring", "we are witnessing", or "we are noticing".

Is it more formal to say "we are observing" or "we are seeing"?

"We are observing" is generally more formal than "we are seeing". "We are observing" suggests a more deliberate and analytical approach, while "we are seeing" is more casual and straightforward.

What's the difference between "we are observing" and "we are studying"?

"We are observing" implies watching and noting occurrences, while "we are studying" suggests a more in-depth, structured investigation to understand a subject. Observing can be a part of studying, but studying involves more formal analysis.