we should know

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we should know" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when suggesting that there is important information or knowledge that ought to be recognized or acknowledged by a group or individual. Example: "In order to make informed decisions, we should know the potential risks involved in this project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

We should know better.

The New York Times - Books

We should know.

The New York Times - Food

We should know soon enough.

The New York Times

We should know by Saturday.

The New York Times

We should know both sides".

The New York Times

Anything else we should know?

The Guardian

I think we should know".

The Guardian - Sport

In Britain, we should know that.

Independent

We should know who he is".

The New York Times

We should know in a few hours.

The New York Times

Boycotts, we should know, are futile.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we should know" when you want to express that certain information is important or necessary for a group to understand. For instance, "We should know the risks before investing."

Common error

Avoid using "we should know" in a way that sounds condescending or accusatory. Instead of saying "We should know better than to make that mistake", try "Let's learn from this mistake and avoid repeating it".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we should know" functions as a modal phrase expressing necessity, advisability, or expectation of knowledge. It combines the modal verb "should" with the verb "know", indicating a degree of obligation or importance. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use in various contexts, reinforcing its role in highlighting information deemed essential.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "we should know" is a commonly used modal phrase that expresses the importance of understanding or being aware of certain information. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and frequently found in contexts such as News & Media, Formal & Business, and Science. When using "we should know", be mindful of the tone and avoid sounding accusatory. Alternatives like "we ought to know" or "it is important to know" can offer a slightly different nuance. Understanding its function and appropriate use can significantly improve clarity and effectiveness in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we ought to know

Uses "ought to" instead of "should", indicating a moral obligation or advisability regarding knowledge.

we need to know

Emphasizes the necessity of acquiring the knowledge, rather than just the advisability.

we have to know

Similar to "we need to know", but implies a stronger imperative or requirement.

it is important to know

Shifts the focus to the importance of the knowledge itself, rather than the obligation of knowing.

we must be aware

Focuses on being conscious or informed about something, rather than possessing complete knowledge.

we should be informed

Highlights the state of being informed, implying a responsibility to stay updated.

we would expect to know

Implies that the knowledge is something that is reasonably anticipated or assumed.

we are expected to know

Suggests an external expectation or requirement to possess the knowledge.

it is advisable to know

Indicates that having the knowledge is beneficial or recommended.

we should be conscious of

Emphasizes awareness and attentiveness to a particular fact or situation.

FAQs

How can I use "we should know" in a sentence?

Use "we should know" to express that certain information is important for a group to understand or be aware of. For example, "We should know the project timeline before making decisions".

What are some alternatives to saying "we should know"?

Alternatives include "we ought to know", "we need to know", or "it is important to know", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

"We should know" suggests advisability or a strong recommendation, while "we must know" implies necessity or obligation. "We must know" conveys a higher degree of importance or urgency.

Is it appropriate to start a sentence with "we should know"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct and often used to introduce a statement of importance or a point that requires emphasis. For example, "We should know that safety is our top priority".