we fear that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we fear that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing concern or apprehension about a particular situation or outcome. Example: "We fear that the project may not meet its deadline due to unforeseen circumstances."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

We fear that means a tough road ahead for even this basic protection.

The New York Times

We fear that people will die".

Independent

"We fear that they have fabricated them".

The New York Times

But we fear that that will make things worse.

The New York Times

We fear that everyone wasn't aware of the ultimatum.

The Economist

However, we fear that there may be unintended consequences.

The Guardian

"We fear that this decision could become a precedent.

The New York Times

We fear that the property market has stagnated.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

We fear that politics may also be involved.

The New York Times

And we fear that the data sitting there are up for grabs, unprotected.

The New York Times

We fear that many are killed in the square, that it's a massacre".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we fear that" to express a sense of apprehension or concern about a future event or situation. This phrase is suitable for formal and neutral contexts.

Common error

While grammatically correct, excessively using "we fear that" in informal conversations can sound overly dramatic or stiff. Opt for more casual alternatives like "we're worried that" or "we're concerned that" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we fear that" functions as a declarative expression introducing a statement of apprehension or concern. It typically precedes a clause that describes the feared outcome or consequence. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Formal & Business

14%

Science

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we fear that" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase to express apprehension or concern. It's appropriate for various contexts, especially in news, business, and scientific writing. While Ludwig AI validates its correctness, it is important to consider the formality of the setting when choosing alternatives. Predominantly found in authoritative news sources such as The New York Times and The Guardian, the phrase effectively conveys a sense of worry about potential negative outcomes. While correct, overuse in informal contexts should be avoided.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are afraid that

Similar in meaning but uses "afraid" instead of "fear", slightly altering the tone.

we are concerned that

Emphasizes concern rather than fear, making it a slightly milder expression.

we worry that

Focuses on the act of worrying, highlighting the anxiety associated with the potential outcome.

it is our fear that

Shifts the emphasis to the fear itself, presenting it as an existing state.

our concern is that

Similar to "we are concerned that" but uses a more formal tone.

we apprehend that

A more formal and less common way to express fear or concern.

we dread that

Conveys a stronger sense of fear and aversion.

we anticipate with concern that

Highlights the anticipation of a negative outcome with added emphasis on concern.

our apprehension is that

Similar to "it is our fear that" but uses "apprehension" for a more formal tone.

we have misgivings that

Indicates doubts or reservations about a possible outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "we fear that" in a sentence?

"We fear that" is typically used to introduce a statement of concern or apprehension about a potential negative outcome. For example, "We fear that the proposed changes will negatively impact the environment."

What are some alternatives to "we fear that"?

Alternatives include "we are afraid that", "we are concerned that", or "we worry that". The choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "we fear that" appropriate for all contexts?

While grammatically correct, "we fear that" might sound overly formal in casual conversation. In such cases, consider using alternatives like "we're worried that" or "we're concerned that".

What's the difference between "we fear that" and "we suspect that"?

"We fear that" expresses apprehension about a potential negative outcome, while "we suspect that" indicates a belief or hunch, often without the same level of concern.