we can

USAGE SUMMARY

"we can" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are inviting others to take action with you. For example, "We can make a difference in our community by volunteering for a local charity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We can".

The New Yorker

We can gain, and we can give.

The Guardian

Reading Simmons, we can.

The New York Times - Magazine

"We can enjoy ourselves".

The New York Times

Maybe we can help.

The New Yorker

We can eat anything".

The New York Times - Magazine

"We can work.

The New York Times

We can work together".

The New Yorker

We can keep improving".

The New York Times - Sports

We can cope.

The New York Times

"We can stay friends.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we can" to foster a sense of collaboration and shared responsibility, particularly in persuasive writing and calls to action. For instance, "We can improve our environment by reducing waste and conserving resources."

Common error

While "we can" is generally acceptable, overuse in formal documents can sound simplistic. In such cases, consider alternatives like "it is within our capabilities" or "we are able to" /s/we+are+able to for a more sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we can" functions as a modal verb phrase indicating ability, possibility, or permission. It is used to express what is achievable or permissible for a group of people, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. For example, "We can achieve this" suggests the ability to accomplish a goal.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we can" is a common and versatile modal verb phrase used to express ability, possibility, or permission. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news and media contexts. While generally acceptable, consider more formal alternatives in academic or scientific writing. Use "we can" to inspire confidence, encourage collaboration, or state possibilities, keeping in mind its generally neutral register.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are able to

A more formal way of expressing the ability to do something.

we're capable of

Similar to "we are able to", but slightly more informal.

we are allowed to

Indicates that there is no prohibition against doing something.

we have the capacity to

This alternative focuses on the potential or power to do something.

we are in a position to

This phrase indicates having the right circumstances or authority to do something.

it is within our capabilities

This alternative emphasizes the inherent ability to achieve something.

we are equipped to

This alternative suggests having the necessary resources or skills.

it's feasible for us

This option highlights the practicality and possibility of something.

we are permitted to

This option focuses on having permission or authorization.

we're entitled to

Focuses on having a right or legitimate claim to do something.

FAQs

How can I use "we can" effectively in a sentence?

Use "we can" to express ability, possibility, or permission. For example, "We can achieve our goals with hard work" expresses ability, while "We can go to the park if the weather is nice" expresses possibility.

What are some alternatives to "we can"?

You can use alternatives like "we are able to", "we have the ability to", or "it is possible for us" depending on the specific context.

Is "we can" suitable for formal writing?

While generally acceptable, "we can" might be too informal for some formal contexts. Consider more sophisticated alternatives such as "we are capable of" or "it is within our power to" /s/it+is+within+our+power+to in highly formal documents.

When is it best to use "we can" versus "we will"?

"We can" indicates ability or possibility, while "we will" indicates a firm intention or future action. For instance, "We can solve this problem" suggests ability, whereas "We will solve this problem" implies a commitment to do so.