we are sure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are sure" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used when you want to express certainty about something. For example, you could write, "We are sure that the meeting will be a success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We are sure of it.

Princeton University

We are sure they're there.

Cornell University

We are sure about that.

The Guardian

We are sure it helped him.

Independent

"We are sure that we acted correctly.

The Guardian - Sport

We are sure Dr Barry would agree.

The Guardian

'We are sure people won't leave.

The Guardian

"We are sure these charges are propaganda.

The New York Times - Magazine

We are sure you will laugh.

The Guardian

Now, he said, "We are sure of our results".

The New York Times - Health

We are sure to hear more of these performers soon.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we are sure" to convey confidence in a statement, but avoid overuse to maintain credibility. Consider varying your language with synonyms like "we are certain" or "we are convinced".

Common error

Avoid using "we are sure" when the evidence is weak or speculative. Overstating certainty can damage your credibility if proven wrong. Qualify your statement if necessary by saying "we are reasonably sure" or "we are fairly confident".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are sure" functions as an assertive expression of certainty or confidence. It indicates a strong belief or conviction on the part of the speaker or writer regarding a particular fact, outcome, or situation. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is considered grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

16%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we are sure" is a common and grammatically sound way to express confidence or certainty. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a usable phrase in written English. It is prevalent in news and media, academia, and scientific contexts. While versatile, be mindful of overusing it and consider stronger or more formal alternatives, like "we are certain" or "it is our conviction", when appropriate. Avoid using "we are sure" when the evidence is weak or speculative to maintain credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are certain

Substitutes "sure" with "certain", indicating a firm conviction.

we are positive

Similar to "we are sure", but emphasizes a more optimistic and affirmative stance.

we have no doubt

Expresses certainty by negating doubt, implying a strong belief.

we feel confident

Replaces "sure" with "confident", emphasizing a feeling of assurance.

we are convinced

Replaces "sure" with "convinced", highlighting the persuasive nature of the evidence.

we firmly believe

Emphasizes the strength of belief, using "firmly believe" instead of "are sure".

we know for a fact

Emphasizes the factual basis of the certainty, suggesting undeniable evidence.

it is our conviction

Shifts the focus to a stated conviction, offering a more formal tone.

we ascertain

Replace "sure" with a more formal verb that means to find something out for certain.

we can guarantee

Implies a promise or assurance, suggesting a high level of certainty and responsibility.

FAQs

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

You can use "we are sure" to express confidence or certainty about something, like "we are sure it will work" or "we are sure of the results".

What are some alternatives to "we are sure"?

Alternatives include phrases like "we are certain", "we are confident", or "we have no doubt", depending on the context and the nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "we are sure" versus "we believe"?

"We are sure" implies a higher degree of certainty based on solid evidence or strong conviction. "We believe" is used when expressing an opinion or assumption that may not be definitively proven.

Is it too informal to use "we are sure" in formal writing?

While generally acceptable, in highly formal or academic writing, consider alternatives like "it is our conviction" or "we ascertain" to maintain a more professional tone. The phrase "we are sure" is versatile but assess the context.