we can appreciate

USAGE SUMMARY

"we can appreciate" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to express understanding or recognition of a situation, usually when accompanied by additional context to provide further explanation. For example, "We can appreciate the difficult position you're in, but we are unable to make an exception in this case."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Today, we can appreciate the essential modernity of Olmsted's view.

The New York Times - Arts

We can appreciate a safer city while opposing its luxification.

The New York Times

We can appreciate Mr. Kerry's complaints that he was misled on both counts.

The New York Times

It is a test of taste that we can appreciate our own era.

The Guardian - Books

It is in that slow, steady growth that we can appreciate things.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"Terrorists can't show their feelings, but here we can appreciate aesthetics".

The New York Times

Today, we can appreciate "Repast" without skirting the fact that AIDS is central to the text.

The New Yorker

The good news is this: Thanks to a preservation architect, we can appreciate the difference.

The New York Times - Arts

And we can appreciate that life is expensive down there in Washington.

The New York Times

As guitar players ourselves, we can appreciate a masterful guitar solo.

Stanford University

We can appreciate them now because they look so new and because we can see what Miró was up to.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we can appreciate", follow it with a clear explanation of what you are appreciating and why. This provides context and strengthens your statement.

Common error

Avoid starting multiple sentences or paragraphs with "we can appreciate" in a short piece of writing. Vary your sentence structure to maintain reader engagement and prevent monotony.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we can appreciate" functions as an expression of understanding, recognition, or gratitude. It typically introduces a clause that explains what is being valued or understood. Ludwig examples show its usage in various contexts, from admiring aesthetics to understanding complex concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we can appreciate" is a versatile phrase used to express understanding, recognition, or gratitude. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and widely used across diverse contexts, including news, science, and academia. While its frequency makes it a common choice, it's important to provide clear context to what you are appreciating to enhance clarity and impact. Alternatives like "we can understand" or "we can recognize" can offer nuanced variations in meaning. Remember to avoid overuse to maintain writing freshness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we can understand

Replaces 'appreciate' with 'understand', focusing on comprehension rather than value.

we can recognize

Shifts from valuing to acknowledging something's existence or importance.

we can acknowledge

Similar to 'recognize', but may imply a more formal acceptance or admission.

we can value

Emphasizes the worth or importance attached to something.

we can admire

Focuses on a feeling of respect and approval.

we can enjoy

Highlights the pleasurable aspect of experiencing or perceiving something.

we can commend

Implies praising or formally recognizing something as excellent.

we can applaud

Suggests approval and praise, often in a public or demonstrative way.

we can realize

Focuses on becoming aware of or understanding something fully.

we can perceive

Highlights the act of becoming aware through the senses or through intuition.

FAQs

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

Use "we can appreciate" to express understanding or gratitude for something. For example, "We can appreciate your hard work on this project".

What can I say instead of "we can appreciate"?

You can use alternatives like "we can understand", "we can recognize", or "we can value" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "we can appreciate" and "we understand"?

"We can appreciate" often implies a sense of gratitude or admiration, while "we understand" focuses solely on comprehension.

Is "we can appreciate" formal or informal?

"We can appreciate" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.