we as persons

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we as persons" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize the collective identity or perspective of individuals in a discussion or argument. Example: "In addressing the challenges of climate change, we as persons must take responsibility for our actions and their impact on the planet."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"It is arguably as much or more by making and keeping promises than by dabbling and deferring that we come to know who we as persons really are and are called to become".

The New York Times

In the experience of positive values, we, as persons, are called to love others ever more profoundly.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

First, as pointed out in 2.3, Confucians appreciate the relational nature of human life: who we are as persons very much includes our social context: the people with whom we are in relationship and our institutions and practices.

SEP

Explores all the ways we are, as persons, one-and-many, as the way to know a one-and-many God.

The New York Times - Books

Moral recognition respect for the dignity of persons is acknowledging this authority; we respect one another as persons when we hold each other mutually accountable for complying with the demands that we acknowledge each person has the authority to make of each other person as free and rational agents.

SEP

Suggesting that we consider "dogs as persons" blurs a legal concept that is already fodder for cynics.

The New York Times

There are irresistible motives; for these we are not as persons responsible.

SEP

By this register we defined electricians as persons employed as skilled electronics mechanic with the highest educational level as skilled electrician or electronics mechanic.

BMC Public Health

We defined "current" as persons who were current smokers, "ex-" as those who had smoked in the past, and "never" as those who had never smoked at any time in their life.

BMC Cancer

We identified cases as persons with a primary or secondary diagnosis of ICD-9 code 008.45 for 'Infection due to Clostridium difficile' listed on an inpatient or outpatient insurance claim.

BMC Infectious Diseases

If we can establish corporations as persons, why can't we establish whales as persons?" Analyzing the legal meaning of "person," Huss discussed her article in the 2002 Marquette Law Review, where she wrote, "just as with corporations, ships, and other nonhumans who have not always been treated as persons, it is possible to change the personhood status of animals".

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we as persons" when you want to emphasize the shared human qualities or responsibilities of a group, particularly in philosophical or ethical discussions.

Common error

Avoid using "we as persons" in casual conversation or informal writing, as it can sound overly formal or pretentious. Opt for simpler alternatives like "we as people" or "we individuals".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we as persons" functions as a collective subject emphasizing the shared humanity or individual agency within a group. It often introduces discussions on moral responsibilities or philosophical viewpoints. Ludwig indicates its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we as persons" is a grammatically correct and usable expression, though relatively rare in everyday language. According to Ludwig, it is used to emphasize shared human qualities or responsibilities, especially in philosophical or ethical discussions. Its formal tone makes it more suited for academic, scientific, or journalistic contexts when conveying a considered and deliberate perspective. Alternatives such as "we as individuals" or "we as people" may be more appropriate in less formal settings. Ludwig's analysis underscores the importance of considering context when employing this phrase to ensure the intended meaning is effectively communicated.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we as individuals

Focuses on the separate identities within the group, shifting from collective persona to individual agency.

we as human beings

Emphasizes the shared humanity and common traits among the group members.

we as people

A simpler and more direct way to refer to the group.

we as members

Highlights the affiliation or belonging to a specific group or category.

we as a collective

Stresses the group's unified action or shared purpose.

we as a community

Underscores the interconnectedness and shared environment of the group.

we as a society

Broadens the scope to encompass the larger social structure and its norms.

we as moral agents

Focuses on ethical responsibilities and decision-making capacity.

we as rational beings

Highlights logical reasoning and intellectual capabilities.

we as conscious entities

Emphasizes awareness, perception, and subjective experience.

FAQs

How can I use "we as persons" in a sentence?

Use "we as persons" when you want to emphasize the shared human qualities or responsibilities of a group. For example, "In addressing the challenges of climate change, "we as persons" must take responsibility for our actions."

What can I say instead of "we as persons"?

You can use alternatives like "we as individuals", "we as human beings", or "we as people" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "we as persons"?

It is appropriate to use "we as persons" in formal contexts, such as philosophical discussions or ethical debates, where you want to emphasize the shared human qualities or responsibilities of a group. Using this phrase highlights the inherent dignity and moral agency of individuals.

Is "we as persons" more formal than "we as people"?

Yes, "we as persons" is generally considered more formal than "we as people". The phrase "we as persons" often appears in philosophical, ethical, or legal contexts, while "we as people" is more common in everyday conversation.