we are referring

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are referring" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to clarify or specify what you are talking about in a discussion or text. Example: "In this report, we are referring to the latest research findings on climate change."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

Formal & Business

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We are referring to Mel Watt, director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency FHFAA).

The Washington Post

But, as with photographs, we need to know who and what we are referring to.

The New York Times

There is the metaphysical comfort that we are referring to something.

The New York Times

We referred to him, and now he refers to us, and we are referring back to him again.

Stanford University

We write and if it is not clear from context which term and class we are referring to.

Stanford University

When we speak of "organized crime," we are referring to something other than traditional, individual criminal activity; that is, short-term behavior confined to a single offender.

Columbia University

Although in present discussion, we are referring the usage in PV concentrator, the method is generally applied in other optical fields.

Solar Energy

All the more so as we are referring to primary school students, challenged by their first authentic school experience at an early age.

Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences

We are referring to unmarried women entrepreneurs who decide not to have their own family due to work commitments and difficulties in balancing work and family.

Nature

It's not the cooking pan we are referring to here.

BBC

we are referring to a totality of qualities.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing in a formal setting, follow "we are referring" with a clear and concise explanation of what is being referred to, enhancing clarity and precision in communication.

Common error

Avoid using "we are referring" in overly casual or informal writing; simpler phrases like "we mean" or direct statements might be more appropriate and natural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are referring" functions as a clarifying device, specifying the particular subject, concept, or item under discussion. It is used to provide context and avoid ambiguity in communication, as shown in the examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

36%

News & Media

25%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

2%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we are referring" is a grammatically correct and very common expression used to clarify the subject under discussion. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for various contexts, particularly in science, news, and academic writing, where precision is essential. While versatile, remember to adjust the tone for informal settings, possibly opting for simpler alternatives. By using "we are referring" judiciously, you can enhance the clarity and effectiveness of your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we mean

This alternative is a more direct and concise way to indicate what is intended or signified.

we specify

This highlights a more precise and detailed explanation of what is being referred to.

we indicate

This is a more general way to point out or show what is being discussed.

we signify

This phrase is a more formal and emphatic way to express the intended meaning or implication.

we denote

Similar to 'we signify', this alternative is more formal and technical, often used in academic or scientific contexts.

we highlight

Similar to 'we point out', this emphasizes a particular aspect as important.

we point out

This alternative is used to draw attention to a particular aspect or detail.

we address

This signifies that the topic is being directly dealt with or discussed.

we allude to

This indicates an indirect reference, suggesting something without explicitly stating it.

we touch upon

This indicates a brief or cursory mention of a topic.

FAQs

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

You can use "we are referring" to clarify what you are talking about. For example, "When we say 'customer satisfaction', "we are referring" to the customer's overall experience with our product".

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

Alternatives include "we mean", "we indicate", or "we specify", depending on the context and the level of formality you want to convey.

Which is correct, "we are referring to" or "we refer to"?

"We are referring to" is used to describe an ongoing or immediate act of referring, while "we refer to" is used for general statements or established practices. For example, "In this chapter, "we refer to" the document as Appendix A" (general practice) vs. "Right now, "we are referring to" the latest data available" (current action).

What's the difference between "we are referring to" and "we are alluding to"?

"We are referring to" implies a direct and explicit reference, whereas "we are alluding to" suggests a more indirect or subtle suggestion. "We are referring to the budget cuts" is direct, while "We are alluding to potential financial difficulties" is indirect.