we are sleeping

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are sleeping" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the state of being asleep, typically in a context where the speaker is referring to themselves and others. Example: "After a long day of work, we are sleeping soundly in our beds."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

Now we are sleeping.

The New York Times - Sports

"We are sleeping giants," he added.

The Guardian - Sport

We are sleeping cheek by jowl with a multinational group.

The Guardian

"And now we are sleeping on the street".

The Guardian

This is because, when we are sleeping, our brains are very active.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"We are sleeping at most five hours a day," Sadika said.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

We were sleeping but . . .

The New Yorker

"Everyone thinks we're sleeping.

The New York Times

We were sleeping in the streets.

Columbia University

It began while we were sleeping.

The Guardian

"We were sleeping on the floor.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we are sleeping" to describe a current state of being asleep. It is appropriate for both formal and informal contexts, depending on the overall tone of your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "we are sleeping" when you mean "we were sleeping" (past tense) or "we will be sleeping" (future tense). Ensure the tense matches the time frame you are describing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are sleeping" functions primarily as a verb phrase in the present continuous tense. According to Ludwig, it is correct and usable in written English, describing an ongoing action at the moment of speaking.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we are sleeping" is a grammatically sound and very common phrase used to describe a group currently in a state of sleep. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in various contexts, ranging from neutral news reports to more formal academic settings. When using this phrase, ensure that the tense aligns with the specific time frame you're referring to. While "we are sleeping" is widely accepted, alternative phrases like "we are resting" or "we are slumbering" can provide subtle variations in tone and formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are dozing

Implies a lighter state of sleep than "we are sleeping".

we are slumbering

A more formal and poetic way to say "we are sleeping".

we are resting

A broader term that includes sleep, but also relaxation without sleep.

we are unconscious

Indicates a deeper state of unawareness than simply sleeping.

we are in repose

A formal way of saying "we are at rest or sleeping".

we are inactive

Focuses on the lack of activity rather than specifically sleeping.

we are out cold

Suggests a very deep or heavy sleep, or unconsciousness.

we are taking a nap

Indicates a short period of sleep, usually during the day.

we are catching some z's

An informal way of saying "we are sleeping".

we are off to dreamland

A figurative expression indicating that "we are going to sleep".

FAQs

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

You can use "we are sleeping" to describe the action of a group currently being asleep. For example: "After the long journey, "we are sleeping" soundly in our hotel rooms."

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

You can use alternatives like "we are resting", "we are slumbering", or "we are dozing" depending on the context and desired level of formality.

Which is correct, "we are sleeping" or "we were sleeping"?

The correct tense depends on the time frame you're referring to. Use "we are sleeping" for the present continuous tense, and "we were sleeping" for the past continuous tense.

What's the difference between "we are sleeping" and "we sleep"?

"We are sleeping" (present continuous) describes an action happening right now. "We sleep" (simple present) describes a habitual action or a general truth, such as "we sleep eight hours a night".