what we read

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "what we read" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the material or content that is being read or discussed, often in the context of analysis or reflection. Example: "The discussion focused on what we read in the last chapter of the book."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Reading, then talking about what we read.

The New York Times

What we read?

The New York Times

We are what we read.

The Guardian - Books

What does this have to do with what we read?

The New Yorker

It decided what we read, watched, and heard.

The New Yorker

Most of what we read about hip fracture isn't good.

Harvard University

At least that's what we read into it.

The Guardian - Music

It's all still there: we are what we read.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It's not what we read that matters; it's how.

The Guardian - Opinion

To some considerable extrent, we are what we read.

The Guardian - Opinion

"We only know what we read in the newspapers".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing the influence of reading, use "what we read" to highlight the impact of specific content on our thoughts and perspectives.

Common error

Be specific when discussing "what we read". Instead of making broad statements, focus on particular types of texts or genres to make your point more compelling and precise.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "what we read" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It refers to the content or material that individuals or groups are reading. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "what we read" is a common and grammatically correct way to refer to the content we consume through reading. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely used across various contexts, including news, academia, and everyday conversation. Its primary function is to emphasize the impact of reading material on our thoughts, beliefs, and social skills. To enhance your writing, consider being specific about the types of texts you're discussing and avoid overgeneralizations. Remember, as the examples from Ludwig illustrate, the influence of "what we read" is a powerful force in shaping our understanding of the world.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the material we are reading

This alternative specifies that the material is currently being read.

the works we've read

Referring to the reading as completed actions, implying a past experience.

reading material

Focuses more specifically on the physical or digital texts that are read, rather than the act of reading.

our chosen readings

Highlights the aspect of choice or preference in the reading material.

our reading selection

Emphasizes the choice or selection of what is being read.

the texts we engage with

This is a more formal way of referring to the material that is read, emphasizing interaction.

content we consume

Broadens the scope to include all forms of media, not just written text.

the literature we study

Specifically refers to literary works and academic reading.

what is in our books

This refers to the information or stories contained within books that are read.

the articles we peruse

Suggests a more casual or selective approach to reading articles.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "what we read" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "the material we are reading" or "the content we consume" depending on the context.

Is it accurate to say "we are what we read"?

The expression "we are "what we read"" suggests that the material we read significantly influences our thinking and character, reflecting the idea that our minds are shaped by the information we take in.

How does "what we read" affect our social and emotional skills?

Reading various types of literature can influence our social and emotional skills by providing insights into different perspectives and experiences, enhancing empathy and understanding.

When is it better to use "what we read" instead of "how we read"?

Use ""what we read"" when emphasizing the content itself, and "how we read" when focusing on the method or manner of reading and its impact on comprehension or interpretation.