we must proceed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we must proceed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating the necessity to continue with a task or action. Example: "After reviewing all the options, we must proceed with the project as planned."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We must proceed sensitively.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

We must proceed with caution".

Independent

So I have decided we must proceed with great care.

The New York Times

"I believe we must proceed very carefully though.

The New Yorker

"We must proceed extremely cautiously," said Robert B. Tierney, the commission's chairman.

The New York Times

We must proceed even further by promoting the coordination of public investments on a voluntary basis.

The Guardian

"The insights hold great promise but we must proceed with caution," Dr. Duncan said.

The New York Times - Health

... we must proceed according to a phased approach giving priority to an orderly withdrawal.

The Guardian

Of course, as we do, we must proceed with a sense of humility.

The New York Times

As the population rapidly ages, say the authors, we must proceed simultaneously along two paths.

Columbia University

As for the wider message of spytastic synchronicity, we must proceed with caution from here on in.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we must proceed" when you want to communicate an action is necessary and unavoidable given the circumstances.

Common error

While grammatically correct, avoid using "we must proceed" in casual conversation. It can sound overly formal or even pompous. Opt for simpler alternatives like "let's go" or "we should start".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of the phrase "we must proceed" is to act as a declarative statement indicating a necessary course of action. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase follows standard grammar rules, so it is considered a correct and usable expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "we must proceed" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression, indicating the necessity to continue with a task or action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it follows standard grammar rules, making it a correct and usable phrase. While common across various contexts, it appears predominantly in news and media, scientific discourse, and formal business settings. When considering related phrases, alternatives such as "it is imperative to continue" or "we have to move forward" can offer nuanced variations in tone and emphasis. While useful to signal necessity, remember that overuse in informal contexts could sound unnatural, so remember to adapt you communication to the context, considering that other options as "let's go" or "we should start" can be a better fit.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we must push forward

Similar in meaning but with a greater emphasis on the effort required.

it is imperative to continue

Emphasizes the urgency and necessity of continuing an action.

we are compelled to move forward

Highlights an external obligation or force driving the need to proceed.

it's essential that we carry on

Focuses on the critical nature of continuing, implying possible consequences if we don't.

we have to advance

Highlights the notion of progress and forward movement.

we are required to go ahead

Indicates a formal obligation or requirement to continue.

it's vital that we push on

Emphasizes the importance and need for resilience in continuing.

we should keep going

Offers a less forceful and more suggestive alternative, implying continuation is advisable.

let's not stall

Suggests that inaction would be detrimental.

the next step is

Focuses solely on the immediate action needed, not the overarching need to proceed.

FAQs

How can I use "we must proceed" in a sentence?

The phrase "we must proceed" is used to express a necessary course of action. For instance, "Given the evidence, "we must proceed" with the investigation" indicates that the investigation is necessary.

What phrases can I use instead of "we must proceed"?

Alternatives include "we need to continue", "we have to move forward", or "it is imperative to continue", depending on the desired level of formality and emphasis.

When is it inappropriate to use "we must proceed"?

Using "we must proceed" in casual settings can sound too formal. In such contexts, consider alternatives like "let's go" or "we should start".

Is "we must proceed" more formal than "we should proceed"?

Yes, "we must proceed" implies a stronger obligation or necessity compared to "we should proceed". The latter suggests a recommendation or advisability, while the former indicates a lack of alternatives.