yes we can

USAGE SUMMARY

"yes we can" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is commonly used as a statement of determination or encouragement. Example: "Despite facing many obstacles, we will not give up. Yes we can achieve our goals and overcome any challenges that come our way."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

YES WE CAN Who said fashionistas are apolitical?

The New York Times

Lindsay Lohan: "YES WE CAN".

Huffington Post

"YES WE CAN!!" (I made that up).

Huffington Post

YES WE CAN, but WHEN? (Ed and Deb Shapiro).

Huffington Post

The CODEPINK message to these Embassies was YES WE CAN Live in Peace.

Huffington Post

Yes, yes, we can hear the conservative response.

Huffington Post

And Nic and Paul loved it so much they said, "Yes, yes we can".

Huffington Post

Yes, we can talk together, and yes, we can speak up.

Huffington Post

Yes, I thought, smiling back at him, yes we can.

The New York Times

Yes, we are!" bellowed the effusive Mr. Johnson, in an echo of Barack Obama's "yes, we can" 2008 campaign slogan.

The New York Times

It's about "yes, we can".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "yes we can" to express confidence and determination, particularly when facing challenges or skepticism.

Common error

While impactful, "yes we can" can sound overly optimistic or simplistic in formal business or academic settings. Consider more nuanced language for such contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "yes we can" functions primarily as an affirmation of ability or possibility. It expresses confidence and determination. As shown in Ludwig, it's often used to counter doubt or negativity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Formal & Business

7%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "yes we can" is a grammatically correct and very common affirmative phrase used to express confidence, possibility, and determination. As confirmed by Ludwig, it serves as a statement of encouragement. The phrase sees frequent use in news and media, often carries an empowering and hopeful tone, and is usually neutral in register. While it can be used broadly, it should be applied judiciously in formal settings where a more nuanced approach might be warranted. If formality is an issue, alternatives such as "we are capable" may be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

absolutely we can

Emphasizes certainty and agreement.

certainly we can

Indicates a strong degree of confidence in ability.

without a doubt, we can

Highlights the lack of uncertainty regarding the possibility.

of course we can

Suggests the possibility is obvious or expected.

assuredly we can

Expresses a firm and confident assurance.

undoubtedly we can

Stresses the unquestionable nature of the capability.

positively we can

Affirms the capability with a sense of optimism and determination.

indeed we can

Confirms the possibility, often in response to a question or doubt.

sure we can

Informal affirmation of ability.

definitely we can

Highlights the certainty of the possibility.

FAQs

How can I use "yes we can" effectively in a speech?

Use "yes we can" as a rallying cry to inspire and motivate your audience. Make sure the context is appropriate and genuinely reflects achievable goals.

What are some alternatives to "yes we can" in a formal setting?

In formal situations, consider alternatives like "we are capable", "we can achieve this", or "it is within our ability".

Is it appropriate to use "yes we can" in written communication?

While acceptable, use "yes we can" sparingly in writing, as it can appear less sophisticated than other options. Choose alternatives like "we are able" or "we have the capacity depending on your audience.

How has the phrase "yes we can" been used in political contexts?

"Yes we can" became a well-known slogan, often associated with campaigns emphasizing hope and change. Its use extends to various movements expressing determination and possibility.