we must recognize

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we must recognize" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when emphasizing the importance of acknowledging a fact, situation, or perspective. Example: "In order to move forward, we must recognize the challenges that lie ahead."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

We must recognize our biological differences.

The New York Times - Books

We must recognize our progress and build on it.

The New York Times

If China makes progress, then we must recognize it.

The New York Times

We must recognize these costs to our nation and world.

The Washington Post

We will survive, but we must recognize the stakes.

The Washington Post

"We must recognize that natural processes cannot be restored," he told me.

The New Yorker

First, though, we must recognize the tremendous pressure on young players.

The New Yorker

"Still, we must recognize the very real harm to families affected by the housing downturn".

The New York Times

Instead, as trade expands, we must recognize that protecting workers is not protectionism.

The New York Times

Moreover, we must recognize that these threats don't arise in a vacuum.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

First, we must recognize what Lent is and is not.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we must recognize", ensure that the subject of recognition is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "we must recognize" in excessively passive constructions; opt for more direct and active phrasing for increased clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "we must recognize" is to express a necessity or obligation to acknowledge or understand something. Ludwig provides many examples of its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Science

22%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we must recognize" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that serves to emphasize the necessity of acknowledging or understanding a particular point. Ludwig's analysis shows it is used across diverse sources like news, science, and formal communication. Alternative phrases include "we need to acknowledge" and "we should acknowledge". Remember to ensure clarity when using this phrase and avoid overuse in passive constructions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we need to acknowledge

Focuses on the necessity of acknowledging something, similar to recognizing it.

we should acknowledge

Suggests acknowledgement as a recommendation or advisable action.

it is important to acknowledge

Highlights the importance of acknowledging something.

we ought to consider

Emphasizes the need to think about or take something into account.

we have to appreciate

Focuses on understanding and valuing something.

we need to appreciate

Highlights a necessity and valuing something.

we have to concede

Emphasizes an unwillingly acknowledgment of something.

we should concede

Highlights a suggestion to make an unwillingly acknowledgment of something.

it's vital to understand

Highlights the importance of something.

we would like to realize

Expresses a hope or desire to understand or become aware.

FAQs

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

Use "we must recognize" to emphasize the importance of acknowledging a particular fact, situation, or perspective. For example, "We must recognize the importance of education in fostering societal progress."

What can I say instead of "we must recognize"?

You can use alternatives like "we need to acknowledge", "we should acknowledge", or "it is important to acknowledge" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "we need recognize" instead of "we must recognize"?

While "we need to recognize" is grammatically correct and conveys a similar meaning, "we must recognize" emphasizes a stronger sense of obligation or necessity. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "we must recognize" and "we should recognize"?

"We must recognize" implies a stronger obligation or necessity, whereas "we should recognize" suggests a recommendation or advisability. The former is more forceful, while the latter is gentler.