we are ourselves

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are ourselves" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize authenticity or individuality, often in discussions about identity or self-perception. Example: "In a world full of expectations, it's important to remember that we are ourselves, and we should embrace our true identities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

When we are ourselves distressed,. . .

The Washington Post

We are ourselves, as subjects, among those later developments.

The New Yorker

We can recognise that we are ourselves, all of us, doubly migrants.

The Guardian - Books

And we can reflect that we are, ourselves, right now at one of those turning points.

The Guardian

You can really create other species that could be as convincing as we are ourselves.

The New York Times

"We are ourselves now changing over to public-sector banks," says DLF's Mr Talwar, but it is not easy.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

"We felt we could be ourselves".

The Economist

We are inevitably ourselves — inescapably ourselves.

The New York Times - Magazine

"We could be ourselves".

The New York Times

We can be ourselves.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

We must be ourselves, he asserted again.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we are ourselves" to reinforce the idea of authenticity, individual identity, or shared human experience. It's effective in contexts where emphasizing genuineness is important.

Common error

Avoid using "we are ourselves" excessively in highly formal or technical writing. Opt for more precise and context-specific language to maintain clarity and avoid sounding repetitive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are ourselves" functions as a statement of identity or authenticity. It emphasizes the genuine nature of the subject ('we') and underscores the importance of being true to oneself. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "we are ourselves" serves as a powerful declaration of identity and authenticity. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and broad applicability. Its function is to assert individuality and genuineness, often in contexts where self-acceptance or resistance to conformity is key. While versatile, it's best to avoid overuse in highly formal writing. Alternatives such as "we are who we are" or "we are our true selves" offer similar meanings with slight nuances. Predominantly found in news and media sources, "we are ourselves" resonates as a reminder to embrace our true identities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are our true selves

A more direct way to express authenticity.

we are who we are

Highlights inherent identity and acceptance of one's nature.

we are being our real selves

Focuses on the act of expressing genuine identity in the present moment.

we are authentic to ourselves

Highlights remaining true to one's own values and principles.

we exist as we are

Emphasizes the present state of being without external influence.

we are fundamentally ourselves

Emphasizes the core, unchanging aspect of one's identity.

we embody our true selves

Focuses on the manifestation of one's authentic identity.

we are intrinsically ourselves

Highlights that our identity is an inherent, essential part of us.

we are genuine in our being

Underscores the authenticity and sincerity of one's existence.

we represent our own identity

Stresses the act of portraying or symbolizing personal identity.

FAQs

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

The phrase "we are ourselves" is often used to emphasize authenticity or to highlight a shared identity. For example, you might say, "Despite external pressures, it's important to remember that "we are ourselves" and should embrace our individuality."

What does "we are ourselves" mean?

It generally means that we are authentic, genuine, and true to our own identities, without pretense or imitation. It emphasizes the importance of being true to oneself and embracing individuality.

What are some alternatives to "we are ourselves"?

Alternatives include phrases like "we are who we are", "we are our true selves", or "we exist as we are". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "we are ourselves"?

Yes, "we are ourselves" is grammatically correct. The reflexive pronoun "ourselves" is used correctly to refer back to the subject "we", reinforcing the idea of being true to our own identities.