we are trying

USAGE SUMMARY

"we are trying" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a feeling of effort. For example, "We are trying our best to make sure we finish the project on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

"But we are trying.

Independent

"We are trying our best".

The New York Times

We are trying too hard.

The New Yorker

We are trying to make it transparent".

The New York Times

"We are trying to dissolve the hatred".

The New York Times

"We are trying to be creative.

The New York Times - Arts

"We are trying to push back".

Independent

We are trying to get results".

The New York Times

We are trying to do something consistently".

The New York Times - Sports

We are trying to answer these questions.

The New York Times

We are trying to correct it".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we are trying", clearly state what you are trying to achieve to provide context and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "we are trying" without specifying the goal. Be clear about what actions are being taken to address a particular issue.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are trying" functions as a declarative statement expressing ongoing effort or an attempt to achieve a specific goal. As Ludwig highlights, it is a common phrase used in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we are trying" is a very common and grammatically correct expression used to convey ongoing effort or intent. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate for use in written English when expressing a feeling of effort. Analysis of the example sentences shows that it is versatile, found in News & Media contexts. When using this phrase, it's important to provide context by clearly stating the goal of the effort. Related phrases like "we are attempting" or "we are endeavoring" can be used as more formal alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are endeavoring

More formal alternative, suggesting a serious and sustained effort.

we are attempting

Emphasizes the act of starting something, regardless of the outcome.

we are working on

Indicates effort towards a specific task or problem.

we are making an effort

Highlights the exertion of energy and resources.

we are giving it a shot

Informal, suggests willingness to try something.

we are doing our best

Emphasizes commitment and dedication to achieving a goal.

we are in the process of

Focuses on the ongoing nature of the effort.

we are striving

Suggests a vigorous and determined effort.

we are aiming

Implies targeting a specific outcome or goal.

we are seeking

Similar to attempting, but more formal and geared towards finding or obtaining something.

FAQs

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

You can use alternatives like "we are attempting", "we are endeavoring", or "we are working on" depending on the context.

How to use "we are trying" in a sentence?

The phrase "we are trying" is typically followed by an infinitive verb (e.g., "we are trying to improve") to indicate the action being attempted. For example, "We are trying to meet the deadline".

Is it better to say "we try" or "we are trying"?

"We try" is a general statement about habitual effort, while "we are trying" suggests current, ongoing effort. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize consistent effort or a specific, present attempt.

What's the difference between "we are trying" and "we will try"?

"We are trying" indicates current action and effort, while "we will try" expresses a future intention to make an effort. For example, "We are trying to resolve the issue now" versus "We will try to resolve the issue tomorrow".