we have failed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we have failed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to acknowledge a lack of success in a particular endeavor or task. Example: "After reviewing the project outcomes, we have failed to meet our initial goals and objectives."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Largely we have failed.

The Guardian - Opinion

We have failed.

The New York Times - Sports

"But we have failed.

The New York Times

We have failed in Syria.

The Guardian

"I think we have failed.

The Guardian

For the time being we have failed".

The Guardian

We have failed to do this.

The Guardian

"Then we have failed," replied Limp.

The Guardian - Tech

"That's something we have failed at".

The New York Times

We have failed to keep that promise.

The New York Times

Of course, we have failed miserably.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we have failed", ensure the context is clear as to who 'we' refers to and what the specific failure entails. Providing specific details enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "we have failed" repeatedly without elaborating on the reasons for the failure or potential solutions. Simply stating failure without analysis can come across as pessimistic or unproductive. Instead, follow up with an explanation of the contributing factors and proposed strategies for improvement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we have failed" primarily functions as a declarative statement. It is used to acknowledge a lack of success or achievement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a common and correct expression. Examples show it used to express failure in various contexts, from political issues to personal responsibilities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

18%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we have failed" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to acknowledge a lack of success. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and usable phrase in English. It is most commonly found in News & Media, Science, and Academic contexts. While simple in construction, it's crucial to provide context when using the phrase to avoid ambiguity and ensure the message is clear. Alternative phrases such as "we did not succeed" or "we were unsuccessful" can be used for variety. When using "we have failed", it's important to analyze the reasons for the failure and propose strategies for improvement rather than simply stating the failure.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we were unsuccessful

Replaces 'failed' with a more direct synonym and uses a different verb tense.

we did not succeed

Uses a negative construction to convey the same meaning.

our efforts were in vain

Emphasizes the futility of the efforts made.

we fell short of expectations

Highlights the discrepancy between the outcome and the desired results.

we missed the mark

An idiomatic expression indicating a failure to achieve the intended target.

we were unable to accomplish

Focuses on the inability to complete a task or reach a goal.

we didn't achieve our objectives

Specifically mentions the failure to meet defined objectives.

we couldn't make it happen

Informal way of expressing failure to bring something to fruition.

we proved unequal to the task

Indicates that the challenge was too great for the capabilities available.

we came up short

Similar to 'fell short', but more concise and informal.

FAQs

What does "we have failed" mean?

The phrase "we have failed" signifies a lack of success in achieving a specific goal or objective. It implies that the efforts made were not sufficient to produce the desired outcome.

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

You can use "we have failed" to acknowledge a lack of success, such as: "After reviewing the results, "we have failed" to meet our targets for this quarter" or "Despite our best efforts, "we have failed" to secure the necessary funding".

What can I say instead of "we have failed"?

You can use alternatives like "we did not succeed", "we were unsuccessful", or "we fell short of expectations", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "we failed" or "we have failed"?

Both "we failed" and "we have failed" are grammatically correct, but "we have failed" implies a more recent or ongoing state of failure. "We failed" is a simple past tense and might refer to a specific instance in the past.