we have come to know

USAGE SUMMARY

"we have come to know" is correct and usable in written English.
It is a phrase that is used when describing something that has been discovered or understood. For example: "Through our research, we have come to know that global warming is an issue that must be addressed immediately."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It was not football as we have come to know it.

Independent

The roach may survive, but not in the way we have come to know it.

The New Yorker

We have come to know the flaws of Kennedy, Johnson, and Nixon largely in retrospect.

The New Yorker

In general, though, this was the Ailey experience as we have come to know it.

The New York Times - Arts

It is certainly not the Japan we have come to know.

University of Pennsylvania

Without IXPs, there would be no Internet, as we have come to know it.

Harvard University

The person we have come to know over nearly a decade is caring, funny, forgiving, honest.

The Washington Post

The Jon Corzine we have come to know — reserved, pensive and polite — is getting an edge.

The New York Times

Old Prediction: Webvan will change the shopping experience as we have come to know it.

The New York Times

By this point, too, we have come to know Starrett a little better.

The New York Times

This is not a simple policy of regime change — or not regime change as we have come to know it.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we have come to know," ensure that the subject 'we' clearly refers to the intended audience or group whose understanding is being discussed.

Common error

Avoid using "we have come to know" to describe something learned instantly. This phrase implies a process of gradual understanding, not a sudden revelation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we have come to know" functions as a stative verb phrase, indicating a state of understanding or familiarity that has developed over time. Ludwig AI indicates this is a correct usage in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Academia

28%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we have come to know" is a versatile phrase used to express a shared understanding or realization that has evolved over time. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and widely accepted. Predominantly found in News & Media and Academic contexts, it signifies a process of learning rather than an instant revelation. When employing this phrase, consider the subtle difference it carries compared to simpler expressions like "we know". Use it to emphasize the journey towards understanding, and ensure that the subject, 'we', is clearly defined. By understanding this phrase's implications, writers can effectively convey the gradual development of knowledge and familiarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we have come to realize

Highlights the gradual understanding and acceptance of something.

we've come to understand

Slightly more informal version emphasizing a gradual understanding.

we now realize

Focuses on a current understanding gained over time.

we have grown to understand

Emphasizes the gradual development of understanding.

we have learned

Highlights the acquisition of knowledge.

we've learned to appreciate

Specifically focuses on developing an appreciation for something.

we have discovered

Focuses on the act of finding something out.

as we now understand

Introduces a statement based on current knowledge.

we recognize now

Highlights current recognition based on past experience.

we now acknowledge

Emphasizes acceptance of something as true.

FAQs

How can I use "we have come to know" in a sentence?

Use "we have come to know" to indicate a gradual understanding or familiarity. For example, "Over the years, we have come to know the importance of sustainable practices."

What can I say instead of "we have come to know"?

You can use alternatives like "we now realize", "we have learned", or "we now understand", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "we have come to know" formal or informal?

"We have come to know" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, more formal alternatives might be preferred in academic or professional writing.

What's the difference between "we have come to know" and "we know"?

"We know" implies a current state of knowledge, while "we have come to know" suggests a process of learning or understanding that has occurred over time. The latter emphasizes the journey to understanding.