ENGLISH
REFERENCE

we

pron. · det.
  1. 1 speaker and others (pron.)
    A1 Beginner

    you use this to talk about yourself and one or more other people together.

    the first-person plural nominative pronoun, referring to a group that includes the speaker or writer.

    Example

    We are going to the cinema tonight if you want to join us.

    Example

    We have decided to postpone the merger until the fiscal reports are fully audited by the external committee.
    Pitfall
    Me and my brother, we went to the park.
    My brother and I went to the park.

    In formal English, avoid using 'we' immediately after naming the people; 'I' is the correct subject pronoun when paired with another person.

  2. 2 people in general (pron.)
    B1 Intermediate

    you use this to talk about all people or a specific society.

    used to refer to people in general, or to a specific community or nation to which the speaker belongs.

    Example

    We need to protect the environment for our children.

    Example

    As a society, we often overlook the long-term consequences of rapid urban development on local ecosystems.
  3. 3 editorial or royal use (pron.)
    C1 Advanced Formal Literary

    used by a single person, like a writer or a king, to sound more formal or powerful.

    the 'editorial' or 'royal' use of the first-person plural to refer to a single person acting in an official or sovereign capacity.

    Example

    In this chapter, we will explore the history of the Roman Empire.

    Example

    We are not amused by such trivial matters, the Queen remarked during the formal reception.
    • I
  4. 4 addressing someone else (pron.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Informal

    a way of saying 'you' to someone you are looking after, like a child or a patient.

    used to address a person or group being spoken to, often in a patronising or caring medical context.

    Example

    How are we feeling today? Did we sleep well?

    Example

    The nurse entered the room with a cheerful smile and asked if we were ready for our morning medication.

    Usage

    Commonly used by healthcare professionals or caregivers when speaking to patients.
  5. 5 we + noun (det.)
    B1 Intermediate

    used before a noun to show that the speaker belongs to that group.

    used as a determiner before a plural noun to identify the speaker as a member of the specified group.

    Example

    We students think the new library hours are much better.

    Example

    We citizens must demand greater transparency from our local government regarding the new tax laws.

Last updated July 9, 2026