we have been talking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we have been talking" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate an ongoing conversation or discussion that started in the past and continues into the present. Example: "We have been talking about the project for weeks, and I think we are finally ready to make a decision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We have been talking.

The New York Times

"We have been talking for one year.

The New York Times

"We have been talking," Greenberg said.

The New York Times - Sports

"We have been talking for 50 years.

Independent

"We have been talking to them.

The Guardian

Until now, we have been talking.

The Washington Post

We have been talking together as a group.

Independent

"But it is true we have been talking to them".

Independent

We have been talking on many, many fronts.

The Telegraph

We have been talking about animals and plants in Science.

The New York Times - Books

"We have been talking about this change for nine months.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use this phrase to introduce a topic that has been under discussion for some time, setting the stage for new information or developments.

Common error

Avoid using "we have been talking" when referring to a single, completed conversation in the past. Use "we talked" or "we had a conversation" instead to indicate a finished event.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we have been talking" functions as an introductory statement, setting the stage for a topic that has already been under discussion. It's used to provide context by indicating an ongoing conversation or negotiation. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Academia

22%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we have been talking" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to indicate an ongoing conversation or discussion. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is suitable for a range of contexts, from formal news reports to academic discussions, maintaining a neutral register. The phrase primarily functions to provide context and establish a shared understanding, making it a versatile tool for effective communication. When writing, ensure that the context clarifies to whom "we" refers and avoid using it for single, completed past conversations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we've been discussing

This alternative emphasizes a more formal discussion, often in a professional setting.

we've been in discussion

This option highlights the state of being engaged in a conversation, implying a structured exchange of ideas.

we have been discussing

A more formal variant of "we've been discussing", suitable for academic or professional contexts.

we've had conversations

This alternative suggests a series of less formal discussions.

we've been negotiating

This option implies a more formal and structured discussion aimed at reaching an agreement.

we've been communicating

This alternative emphasizes the act of exchanging information, which may or may not be verbal.

we've been corresponding

Suggests communication primarily through written means.

we've been conferring

Implies a formal consultation or exchange of views to reach a decision.

we've been consulting

This suggests seeking advice or exchanging ideas with an expert or authority.

we've been in touch

This alternative is broader, implying any form of contact, not necessarily focused on a specific topic.

FAQs

How can I use "we have been talking" in a sentence?

You can use "we have been talking" to indicate an ongoing conversation or discussion. For example, "We have been talking about the budget for weeks now".

What's a more formal alternative to "we have been talking"?

A more formal alternative would be "we have been discussing", which implies a more structured and serious conversation.

How does "we have been talking" differ from "we talked"?

"We have been talking" suggests an ongoing process, while "we talked" implies a completed conversation in the past. The former indicates continuity, the latter a finished event.

Is it correct to say "we are talking" instead of "we have been talking"?

"We are talking" indicates that the conversation is happening right now. "We have been talking" suggests that the conversation started in the past and is ongoing or relevant to the present.