we often are

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we often are" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a frequent state or condition that applies to a group of people, typically in a descriptive context. Example: "In our discussions, we often are reminded of the importance of teamwork and collaboration."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

We often are.

The Guardian

Moreover, when we think we are exercising some choice in the matter, we often are not.

Independent

A makeover doesn't do the trick, nor does accidentally meeting her favourite author, who's a disappointment (we often are).

The Guardian - Books

Listening to podcasts with earbuds, as we often are, is "so different even from being in the car".

The New Yorker

So we often are using questions to bring out points that we think our colleagues ought to know about".

The New York Times

(We will try to acknowledge them – but given how "snowed under" we often are here, we can't promise to acknowledge every submission).

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

"So we quite often are forced into a corner.

The Guardian

Thus, autoantibodies can be, and we believe often are, pathogenic.

BMC Ophthalmology

To clarify, we said they often are.

Huffington Post

HOW often are we to be introduced to "The Decalogue"?

The New York Times - Arts

How often are we told that looks shouldn't matter?

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we often are" to present generalizations or recurring patterns; avoid it for specific, isolated incidents.

Common error

Avoid using "we often are" without sufficient evidence or justification, as it can lead to overgeneralizations and inaccurate representations. Ensure your statement is supported by data or observations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we often are" primarily functions as a statement of fact or observation. It asserts that a particular condition or behavior is common or frequent among a group of people. Ludwig AI shows various instances of usage, affirming its role in expressing general truths or typical scenarios.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

32%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we often are" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe recurring situations or characteristics within a group. Ludwig AI identifies its primary function as stating facts or observations, with a neutral register suitable for diverse contexts. While versatile, ensuring clarity in defining the group ("we") and avoiding overgeneralizations are key best practices. Related phrases like "we frequently are" offer more formal alternatives for specific needs.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are often

Inverts the word order slightly, changing the emphasis without altering the core meaning.

we frequently are

Replaces 'often' with 'frequently', indicating a slightly higher degree of occurrence.

we commonly are

Substitutes 'often' with 'commonly', suggesting a prevalent or widespread situation.

we typically are

Replaces 'often' with 'typically', indicating something that is normal or usual.

we generally are

Uses 'generally' instead of 'often', implying a broad or overall trend.

we tend to be

Shifts the structure to 'tend to be', suggesting a predisposition or inclination.

more often than not we are

Emphasizes the frequency using the idiom 'more often than not'.

in many cases we are

Adds a qualifier emphasizing that the statement applies to numerous, but not all, instances.

we find ourselves

Indicates that "we" discover or realize that "we often are" in specific situations

it's common for us to be

Restructures the sentence to highlight the commonality of a certain state or behavior.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "we often are" to sound more formal?

To sound more formal, consider using alternatives such as "we frequently are" or "we commonly are". These options offer a more sophisticated tone suitable for formal writing.

Is there a subtle difference in meaning between "we often are" and "we are often"?

While both phrases are grammatically correct, "we often are" emphasizes the frequency, whereas "we are often" places more emphasis on the state or condition being described. The choice depends on the intended focus of your sentence.

Can "we often are" be used in all types of writing?

Yes, "we often are" is versatile and can be used in various types of writing, from informal to formal, depending on the context and audience. However, consider more formal alternatives like "we frequently are" for academic or professional contexts.

What are some common situations where "we often are" is appropriate?

"We often are" is suitable when describing recurring behaviors, shared experiences, or common characteristics within a group. For example, "In project meetings, "we often are" reminded of the importance of collaboration."