we can do better

USAGE SUMMARY

"we can do better" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to express a belief that there is room for improvement in any given situation. For example, "We can do better in our efforts to reduce pollution."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Still, we can do better.

The New Yorker

"Maybe we can do better".

The New York Times - Science

Surely we can do better.

The New York Times

We can do better, together".

The New York Times

But we can do better.

The New York Times

Surely we can do better......

The New York Times

"We can do better today".

The New York Times

But we can do better than that.

The New York Times

As a culture, we can do better.

The New York Times

I know we can do better.

The New Yorker

Because it means we can do better.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "we can do better" with a specific area or goal to provide context and direction. For instance, "We can do better in environmental conservation" offers a clear focus for improvement efforts.

Common error

Avoid using "we can do better" as a generic statement without providing specific examples or areas for improvement. This can sound empty and unconvincing. Instead, provide actionable insights to support your claim.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we can do better" functions as a modal expression indicating the possibility and desirability of improvement. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in various contexts. It serves as a concise way to express a belief that there is potential for enhancement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Reference

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we can do better" is a versatile and widely used phrase to express the potential for improvement. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and usability. This phrase is most frequently found in news and media, but also appears in formal business and scientific contexts, indicating its broad applicability. Remember to use it with specific examples to enhance its impact and avoid vagueness. Explore alternative expressions like "we should improve" or "there's room for improvement" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we can achieve more

Expresses the idea of accomplishing a greater quantity of things or reaching a higher level of attainment.

we should improve

Replaces "can do" with "should improve", suggesting a moral obligation or recommendation rather than just possibility.

we are capable of more

Emphasizes the ability to achieve greater things, suggesting current efforts are not maximizing potential.

we could aim higher

Substitutes "do better" with "aim higher", focusing on setting more ambitious goals.

it's within our reach to succeed

Suggests the achievement of success or intended results is accessible and attainable through our efforts.

a better outcome is possible

Focuses on the possibility of a more favorable result or consequence if actions are adjusted.

we have the means to advance

Indicates possessing the resources or capabilities necessary to progress or improve from the current state.

there's room for improvement

Uses a more general expression to indicate that things are not perfect and can be made better.

we ought to strive for excellence

Replaces "do better" with a broader aspiration for surpassing ordinary standards and attaining superior quality.

we have potential to excel

Highlights the untapped capabilities and possibilities for outstanding achievement.

FAQs

How can I use "we can do better" in a sentence?

You can use "we can do better" to express a belief that there is room for improvement in a situation. For example, you might say, "While our initial results were positive, "we can do better" in the next phase of the project".

What are some alternatives to saying "we can do better"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "we should improve", "we could aim higher", or "there's room for improvement".

Is it appropriate to use "we can do better" in formal writing?

Yes, "we can do better" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when discussing areas for improvement within organizations or projects. However, ensure that it's followed by specific, actionable recommendations.

What's the difference between "we can do better" and "we must do better"?

"We can do better" suggests the possibility of improvement, while "we must do better" implies a stronger obligation or necessity. The choice depends on the level of urgency or importance you want to convey.