we have a responsibility

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we have a responsibility" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing obligations or duties that individuals or groups are expected to fulfill. Example: "As citizens, we have a responsibility to vote and participate in our democracy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Responsible We have a responsibility to future generations to protect the environment.

Energy, Sustainability and Society

"We have a responsibility in the market.

The Economist

"We have a responsibility to conduct them.

The New York Times

So we have a responsibility.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

We have a responsibility to change that.

Princeton University

I think we have a responsibility.

The New York Times

"We have a responsibility to respond.

The Guardian

We have a responsibility to act".

The Guardian

We have a responsibility to our consumers.

The New York Times

Don't we have a responsibility for both?

The New York Times

"I think we have a responsibility to ratchet that up.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we have a responsibility", clearly define who 'we' refers to and what specific actions the responsibility entails to avoid ambiguity. For instance, instead of saying "We have a responsibility", specify "As citizens, we have a responsibility to vote in local elections".

Common error

Avoid using "we have a responsibility" without a clear plan of action or tangible commitment. General statements without follow-through can undermine credibility. Instead, accompany the statement with concrete steps or initiatives.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we have a responsibility" functions as a declarative statement expressing a collective obligation or duty. Ludwig provides examples showing its widespread use in various contexts, from environmental protection to social issues, confirming its role in asserting accountability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Academia

7%

Science

36%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we have a responsibility" is a common and grammatically correct way to express a shared duty or obligation. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usage across diverse contexts, predominantly in news and media, but also in academic and scientific fields. To use it effectively, ensure clarity about who 'we' refers to and the specific actions entailed. While the statement is strong, avoid overgeneralization and ensure concrete follow-through. Alternatives like "we are obligated" or "we are duty-bound" can provide nuanced variations depending on the intended emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are obligated

Highlights the binding nature of the responsibility, often implying a formal agreement or requirement.

we are morally bound

Emphasizes the moral aspect of the obligation.

we are duty-bound

Emphasizes a strong moral or legal obligation.

we are accountable

Focuses on being answerable for the consequences of actions or inactions.

we are bound by duty

Similar to 'duty-bound', highlighting the restrictive nature of the obligation.

it is incumbent upon us

More formal and emphasizes the weight of the duty placed upon the speaker(s).

we have a moral imperative

Emphasizes the ethical necessity of the responsibility.

we must

Direct and concise, indicating necessity and obligation.

we are tasked with

Focuses on the assignment or delegation of the responsibility.

we are compelled

Highlights the feeling of being forced or driven to take action.

FAQs

How can I use "we have a responsibility" in a sentence?

You can use "we have a responsibility" to express an obligation or duty that a group or individual has. For instance, "We have a responsibility to protect the environment for future generations".

What are some alternatives to saying "we have a responsibility"?

Alternatives include phrases like "we are obligated", "we are duty-bound", or "it is incumbent upon us", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "we have a responsibility" or "we have an obligation"?

Both phrases are correct, but "we have a responsibility" often implies a moral or ethical duty, while "we have an obligation" suggests a more formal or legal requirement. The best choice depends on the specific context.

What's the difference between "we have a responsibility" and "we should"?

"We should" indicates a recommendation or suggestion, whereas "we have a responsibility" signifies a duty or obligation that is expected to be fulfilled. The latter carries a stronger sense of commitment.