The Right Way to Express Moving Home: Grammar and Usage

Correct phrase usage is crucial for clear communication. Whether you're creating content or simply engaging in a conversation, using the right grammatical structure is essential. In this article, we will explore the correct and incorrect ways to express the idea of heading home and understand the nuances of usage in different scenarios.

Understanding 'We are going home'

The phrase We are going home is grammatically correct and commonly used. It implies that the speaker and their companions are heading to their home or place of residence. This expression is straightforward and commonly understood in daily language.

Understanding 'We are going to home'

In contrast, the phrase We are going to home is considered incorrect by many grammarians. According to Emeritus Professor Rodney Huddleston, a renowned linguist and co-author of the The Cambridge Grammar of the English Language along with Geoffrey Pullum, the correct structure is we are going home or we are going to go home. Professor Huddleston explains that the word home functions as an adverb in these sentences, modifying the verb go.

Further Clarification

There is a subtle distinction between the two structures:

We are going to go home (Future Tense)

This phrase is often used to indicate a future action. For example:

We are going to go home maybe soon maybe later. This sentence suggests that the speaker and their group are making plans to return home at a future time, which could be soon or far later.

We are going home (Present Tense)

The phrase We are going home is used when the action is happening now or is near at hand. It suggests that the speaker and their companions are on their way and ready to arrive at home. For example:

We’re on our way. This statement indicates that the speaker and their group are in the process of traveling to their destination, which is their home.

It's important to note that some people might also use We are going to home while treating home as a noun, but this is not a standard or recommended usage in formal or grammatically correct contexts. Using we are going home or we are going to go home is the most elegant and grammatically accurate option.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when expressing the idea of moving or going home, it is best to use the phrase We are going home or We are going to go home. This aligns with the conventions of English grammar and ensures clear communication. Whether you are preparing an article, a blog post, or engaging in everyday conversation, using the correct grammatical structure will enhance the clarity of your message.