we can hear

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we can hear" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating the ability to perceive sound or when discussing auditory experiences. Example: "During the concert, we can hear the music clearly from our seats."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We can hear him.

The New York Times

"We can hear them screaming.

Independent

We can hear you".

The Guardian - Arts

"We can hear you," Mr Bush replied.

The Economist

We can hear the angels sing.

The New York Times

"We can hear them all land, though".

The New York Times

We can hear thunder and rain outside.

The New Yorker

"We can hear one of them".

Independent

"H1 to H3, we can hear him".

The New Yorker

We can hear it roar.

The Guardian - Books

We can hear them sneeze!

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we can hear" to clearly indicate the ability to perceive a sound, whether it's a general statement or a specific instance. For example, "We can hear the birds singing in the morning."

Common error

Avoid using "we can hear" when the context requires a different sense, such as understanding or comprehending. For example, instead of "We can hear what you mean", use "We understand what you mean."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we can hear" functions as a declarative statement expressing the ability to perceive sounds. Ludwig confirms its common usage. Examples show it used to describe hearing music, voices, and environmental sounds.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "we can hear" is a common and grammatically sound way to express the ability to perceive sound, as confirmed by Ludwig. Its versatility shines through various contexts, from news reports to academic discussions. While generally neutral in tone, alternatives like "we are able to hear" offer a more formal touch. Remember to use it accurately, focusing on actual auditory perception rather than metaphorical understanding. With its widespread use and clear meaning, "we can hear" remains a reliable tool for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are able to hear

Replaces the contraction "can" with "are able to", providing a slightly more formal tone.

we're hearing

Uses the present continuous tense, emphasizing the ongoing nature of the act of hearing.

we perceive

Employs a more formal verb, indicating a conscious awareness of the sound.

sounds reach us

Shifts the focus from the listener to the sounds themselves, indicating that the sounds are audible.

we are picking up

Indicates the reception of sounds, often used in a technical or sensory context.

we detect

Suggests a more scientific or analytical approach to hearing, implying the sounds are being identified.

we make out

Implies that the sounds are faint or unclear but still discernible.

we catch

Suggests briefly hearing something, often accidentally or unexpectedly.

it is audible to us

A more formal way of indicating that the sounds are capable of being heard by us.

we've got ears on

An informal way of saying that we're listening or paying attention to sounds, often used in a clandestine context.

FAQs

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

Use "we can hear" to describe the ability to perceive sounds. For example, "We can hear the music" or "We can hear you clearly".

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

You can use alternatives like "we are able to hear", "we're hearing", or "sounds reach us" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "we can hear" versus "we understand"?

"We can hear" refers to the physical act of perceiving sounds, while "we understand" refers to comprehending information. Use "we can hear" when discussing auditory perception and "we understand" when discussing comprehension.

Is "we can hear" formal or informal?

"We can hear" is generally considered neutral and appropriate for both formal and informal contexts. However, in very formal settings, "we are able to hear" might be preferred.