we ask ourselves

USAGE SUMMARY

"we ask ourselves" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to indicate that someone is reflecting internally on a situation. For example, "We ask ourselves, what can we do to make this situation better?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We ask ourselves that question, too".

The Guardian

Where are the journalists?" we ask ourselves.

The Guardian - Opinion

Where, we ask ourselves, will Freddie Quell find rest?

The New Yorker

"Every summer we ask ourselves why we live here," said elder Barbara Durham.

Independent

Tamborello says: "We ask ourselves, 'Can we picture our clothes on every character?

The New York Times

Last, if a video passes the first two rounds, we ask ourselves what it all means.

The New York Times

We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?

The New York Times

Without giving anything away, these are the questions we ask ourselves constantly.

The New York Times

When evaluating applications, we ask ourselves whether students have taken advantage of what their setting offers.

The New York Times

Instead, at every turn we ask ourselves, what will make the world a better place?

The New York Times

Is this a question we ask ourselves, as writers or as readers, and is it answerable?

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we ask ourselves" to introduce a question that reflects collective or internal deliberation. This emphasizes introspection and invites shared contemplation.

Common error

While appropriate in narrative or reflective writing, overuse of "we ask ourselves" in direct dialogue can sound stilted. Consider rephrasing as a direct question for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we ask ourselves" serves as an introspective device, introducing a question that arises from internal reflection or collective consideration. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness. Examples across various sources illustrate its use in posing questions relevant to decision-making, understanding, and problem-solving.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

16%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we ask ourselves" is a grammatically correct and very common phrase used to introduce a question that arises from internal reflection or collective consideration. Ludwig AI confirms its accuracy and usability. It is particularly frequent in news and media, science, and formal business contexts. When using "we ask ourselves", ensure it introduces a genuine question prompted by reflection and consider the register of your writing, avoiding overuse in informal dialogue. It's a versatile phrase for stimulating critical thought and encouraging shared understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we question ourselves

Is a direct synonym, but "we ask ourselves" is a slightly more common phrasing.

we interrogate ourselves

Implies a more intense and rigorous form of self-questioning.

we consider

Implies general consideration but lacks a sense of active self-questioning.

we ponder

Emphasizes thoughtful consideration but lacks the self-directed questioning aspect.

we examine our thoughts

Focuses on the inspection of internal thoughts, but omits the active element of questioning.

we contemplate

Focuses on deep thinking and reflection, but does not necessarily involve posing questions to oneself.

we wonder

Suggests curiosity and uncertainty, without the implied deliberation.

we reflect on

Focuses on looking back at something, whereas "we ask ourselves" implies immediate questioning.

we deliberate

Highlights careful and thorough discussion or consideration, often within a group, rather than internal questioning.

we muse

Conveys a state of dreamy contemplation, often lacking a specific question.

FAQs

How can I use "we ask ourselves" in a sentence?

Use "we ask ourselves" to introduce a question that arises from internal reflection or collective consideration. For example, "Faced with these challenges, "we ask ourselves", what is the best course of action?"

What's the difference between "we ask ourselves" and "we wonder"?

"We ask ourselves" typically introduces a direct question being pondered, whereas "we wonder" suggests a more general sense of curiosity or uncertainty without a specific question necessarily being posed.

Is "we ask ourselves" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "we ask ourselves" is suitable for formal writing, especially in contexts where you are presenting a line of reasoning or exploring different perspectives on a topic. It signals thoughtful consideration.

What are some alternatives to "we ask ourselves" for variety?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "we consider", "we contemplate", or "we question ourselves" to introduce similar reflections. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.