we are slaves

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are slaves" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing themes of oppression, servitude, or metaphorical expressions of being controlled or dominated. Example: "In this society, we are slaves to our routines, unable to break free from the monotony of daily life."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

We are slaves because we are masters.

The New Yorker

"We are slaves," she says again.

The New York Times - Arts

"We are slaves to realism," Gervais says.

The Guardian

Without the I.R.A., we are slaves".

The New Yorker

"We are slaves to climate in agriculture.

The Guardian

This year we are slaves, next year we may be free".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

Sitting around the Seder table, we declare: avadim hayyinu -- "WE were slaves".

Huffington Post

"We were slaves to margins".

The New York Times

We're slaves, really".

The Guardian - Opinion

We were slaves to the Arabs".

The Guardian

Digging everything like we were slaves".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "we are slaves", ensure the context clearly conveys the type of servitude being discussed, whether literal or metaphorical. Be mindful of the strong connotations and potential for misinterpretation.

Common error

Avoid using "we are slaves" casually or without a clear connection to actual constraints or obligations. Overusing the metaphor can dilute its impact and potentially trivialize genuine experiences of oppression.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are slaves" functions as a declarative statement, expressing a state of being. Based on Ludwig AI, it asserts a condition of servitude, whether literal or metaphorical. The examples show its use in various contexts, highlighting different aspects of this condition.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we are slaves" is a versatile expression used to convey a state of servitude, obligation, or lack of autonomy. As Ludwig AI confirms, it functions as a declarative statement capable of evoking strong emotional responses. While its usage is grammatically correct, it’s crucial to consider the context and potential implications. The phrase appears most frequently in News & Media, often to highlight social or economic issues. For alternative expressions, consider "we are captive" or "we are bound" depending on the desired nuance. Exercise caution in using this phrase to avoid trivializing genuine experiences of slavery.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are captive

Emphasizes a state of being held or controlled, often against one's will; stronger connotation of physical restriction.

we are in bondage

Refers to a state of being enslaved or imprisoned, either literally or figuratively; stronger connotation of suffering.

we are bound

Suggests being tied or obligated by duty, promise, or circumstance; implies a moral or legal constraint.

we are at the mercy of

Suggests being vulnerable and subject to the whims or actions of another; emphasizes a lack of control.

we are chained

Highlights a restriction in freedom, being unable to move or advance.

we are controlled

Highlights the aspect of external manipulation and influence over actions or decisions; focuses on the loss of autonomy.

we are subjugated

Indicates being brought under domination or control, often by force or oppression; implies a power imbalance.

we are indentured

Implies a contractual obligation to work for someone for a fixed period; specific to labor agreements.

we are subservient

Conveys a willingness to obey or comply with the wishes of others; emphasizes a lower status or position.

we are dependent

Focuses on reliance on someone or something for support or survival; highlights a lack of self-sufficiency.

FAQs

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

The phrase "we are slaves" can be used to describe a literal condition of forced labor or a metaphorical state of being controlled or dominated by something. For example, "We are slaves to our technology" or "We are slaves to the system".

What are some alternatives to saying "we are slaves"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "we are captive", "we are bound", or "we are controlled" to express a similar sentiment.

Is it appropriate to use the phrase "we are slaves" in a modern context?

The appropriateness of using "we are slaves" depends on the context and audience. It can be a powerful metaphor, but be mindful of the potential to trivialize historical and ongoing instances of actual slavery. Consider alternatives that convey the intended meaning with greater sensitivity.

What does it mean to say "we are slaves to our habits"?

Saying "we are slaves to our habits" means that our habits control our behavior, limiting our freedom to choose alternative actions. This suggests a strong, often negative, influence that is difficult to overcome.