we really are

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we really are" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to emphasize a statement about a group or collective identity, often in a context of affirmation or reassurance. Example: "Despite the challenges we face, we really are committed to making a difference in our community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We really are gifted".

Independent

We really are.

The New York Times

We're trying; we really are.

The New Yorker

"We really are one community".

Independent

We really are value managers.

The New York Times

That's who we really are".

The Guardian

We really are that important.

The Guardian

"We really are against regulation".

The New York Times - Sports

"We really are the pioneers.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

We really are in Crazytown.

The Washington Post

We really are about long term.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we really are" to reinforce a shared characteristic or commitment within a group. For example: "Despite challenges, we really are dedicated to our mission."

Common error

Avoid using "we really are" in highly formal documents where a more sophisticated and less conversational tone is expected. Consider alternatives like "we are indeed" or a more descriptive statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we really are" functions as an affirmative statement, emphasizing a characteristic, state, or commitment shared by a group. As seen in Ludwig, it's often used to reinforce a sense of collective identity or agreement. The Ludwig AI confirms this with its positive response.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Formal & Business

26%

Academia

11%

Less common in

Science

4%

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we really are" is a versatile and frequently used expression to emphasize a shared attribute or conviction. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts. While suitable for many situations, including news, business, and even some academic settings, it's best to avoid it in highly formal writing where a more refined tone is necessary. Consider alternatives like "we truly are" or "we certainly are" for increased formality. The phrase is valuable for reinforcing group identity and conveying sincerity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we truly are

Emphasizes truthfulness; slightly more formal.

we genuinely are

Highlights sincerity; interchangeable in many contexts.

we certainly are

Conveys assurance; subtly stronger affirmation.

we definitely are

Expresses a firm and clear affirmation.

we actually are

Highlights the reality, often surprising.

we indeed are

Formal affirmation; less common in everyday speech.

that is who we are

Shifts focus to identity; emphasizes essence.

this is what we are

Highlights a current state; introduces a revelation.

it is truly us

Emphasizes authenticity and connection to identity.

that's us alright

Informal and colloquial; expresses recognition.

FAQs

What does "we really are" emphasize in a sentence?

The phrase "we really are" emphasizes the truthfulness or sincerity of a statement about a group. It adds conviction and highlights a shared quality or condition.

What can I say instead of "we really are" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using alternatives such as "we truly are", "we certainly are", or a complete rephrasing that avoids the conversational tone.

Is it appropriate to use "we really are" in academic writing?

While generally acceptable, using "we really are" in academic writing depends on the context. In less formal sections, it can add emphasis, but in highly formal sections, consider alternatives.

How does "we really are" differ from "we are"?

The phrase "we really are" adds emphasis and conviction compared to the simple statement "we are". It conveys a stronger sense of truth or sincerity.