why don't we

USAGE SUMMARY

"why don't we" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to introduce a suggestion. For example, "Why don't we take a break and grab a coffee?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But why don't we?

The New York Times - Magazine

Why don't we?

The New York Times

Why don't we all?

The New Yorker

So why don't we?

The Guardian

"Why don't we do it?

The New York Times

Why don't we take questions.

The New Yorker

"Why don't we…" he suggested.

The New Yorker

"Why don't we rouse ourselves?

The New York Times

Why don't we eliminate that?

The New York Times - Sports

Why don't we feel better?

The New York Times

Why don't we go out?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "why don't we" to initiate collaborative problem-solving or suggest inclusive action. For example, "Why don't we brainstorm some ideas together?"

Common error

While versatile, "why don't we" can sound too informal in highly professional settings. Opt for phrases like "may we suggest" or "we propose" to maintain a more appropriate tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "why don't we" functions as an interrogative structure used to introduce a suggestion or proposal. It invites the listener to consider a course of action and is often used to initiate collaborative decision-making, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "why don't we" is a common and grammatically sound way to make a suggestion or proposal. According to Ludwig, it is frequently used in News & Media and Academia, with a neutral to informal register. While versatile, it may be prudent to consider more formal alternatives like "may we suggest" or "we propose" in professional contexts. Ultimately, understanding the context and audience is key to using this phrase effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

how about we

A more informal way to suggest an idea or plan.

what if we

Proposes a hypothetical scenario or suggestion for consideration.

let's

A direct and concise way to offer a suggestion for a group activity.

shall we

A more formal and polite way to make a suggestion, often used in British English.

why not

Suggests exploring an option, often when there are no clear objections.

we could

Offers a possibility or suggestion, often implying there are other options as well.

perhaps we should

A tentative suggestion, indicating uncertainty or politeness.

would you like to

Frames the suggestion as a question of preference, offering a choice.

it might be good to

Suggests an action with a focus on its potential benefits.

have you considered

Suggests exploring an option that the listener may not have thought of.

FAQs

How can I use "why don't we" in a sentence?

Use "why don't we" to make a suggestion or proposal. For example, "Why don't we go out for dinner tonight?" or "Why don't we try a different approach?"

What's a more formal alternative to "why don't we"?

In formal settings, consider alternatives such as "may we suggest", "we propose", or "would you consider" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to use "why don't we"?

Yes, "why don't we" is grammatically correct and widely accepted in both spoken and written English for making suggestions.

What's the difference between "why don't we" and "why not"?

"Why don't we" specifically includes the speaker and listener in the suggested action, while "why not" can be a more general inquiry or suggestion that doesn't necessarily include the speaker.