we are stumped

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are stumped" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing confusion or being unable to find a solution to a problem. Example: "After hours of brainstorming, we are stumped on how to proceed with the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

We are stumped.

The New York Times

But this time, we are stumped.

The New York Times

Very simple, but we are stumped.

The New Yorker

We all reach out to our community of doctors when we are stumped.

The New York Times

It is because this is the only honest review we can give the modern artist: Very simple, but we are stumped".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

So we were stumped".

The New York Times

But then we were stumped that he was being retained.

The Guardian

And we were stumped by the handful of recipes that contained no tomato at all.

The Washington Post

We've tried to come up with a useful alternative, but we're stumped.

The New York Times

Then around fashion week one year, we were talking about what brands we were excited to wear as consumers and we were stumped.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

In the first episode, we were stumped by the terrible dialogue – and iffy sound quality – in the "wolves" scene in which Louis asked his brother "to watch his bag".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we are stumped" when you want to convey a sense of collaborative confusion or inability to solve a problem after considerable effort. It's best suited for situations where a group is facing a challenge.

Common error

Avoid using "we are stumped" in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more professional alternatives such as "we are currently unable to determine" or "further investigation is required".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are stumped" functions as a declarative statement expressing a state of confusion or inability to understand or solve a problem. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. The examples highlight its use in expressing current difficulties.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we are stumped" is a grammatically correct phrase used to express confusion or inability to solve a problem, particularly in collaborative settings. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's appropriate for neutral contexts but less so for highly formal writing. While not very frequent, it conveys a clear message of bewilderment and a need for alternative solutions. Consider using related phrases like "we are puzzled" or "we are at a loss" to adjust the tone or formality of your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are puzzled

Replaces "stumped" with a more neutral term for confusion.

we are baffled

Emphasizes bewilderment and difficulty in understanding.

we are perplexed

Highlights a state of being deeply confused and uncertain.

we are at a loss

Indicates not knowing what to do or say.

we are clueless

Suggests a complete lack of understanding or knowledge.

we are mystified

Indicates a sense of mystery and inability to comprehend.

we are confounded

Implies being proven wrong or unable to overcome a problem.

we are disoriented

Highlights mental confusion and loss of bearings.

we are stuck

Focuses on the inability to move forward or make progress.

we can't figure it out

A more colloquial way of expressing the inability to understand.

FAQs

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

Use "we are stumped" to express that a group is facing a problem they cannot solve or understand. For example: "After reviewing all the data, "we are stumped" as to the cause of the error."

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

Alternatives include "we are puzzled", "we are baffled", or "we are at a loss". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "we are stumped" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "we are stumped" is generally more suitable for informal or neutral contexts. In formal writing, consider alternatives like "we require further investigation" or "we are currently unable to determine".

What does "we are stumped" imply about the situation?

"We are stumped" implies that a considerable effort has been made to understand or resolve a situation, but without success. It suggests a temporary state of being unable to proceed.