When in use

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "When in use" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something should be activated or utilized during a specific time or condition. Example: "Please ensure that the equipment is turned off when not in use."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

When in use, they flip out horizontally over the ears, according to patent application No. 20020104152.

The New York Times

When in use, the tang is gripped in adjustable jaws in the shell, or chuck, of the brace.

Encyclopedia Britannica

When in use, the toilet plays any of six soundtracks, including chirping birds, rushing water, tinkling wind chimes, or the strumming of a traditional Japanese harp.

The New York Times

When in use the glass tint can control the amount of light and heat that gets into the building while at the same time remaining transparent.

The Guardian - Business

When in use, the tiniest wear makes it lighter, while pollution in the air binds to the surface and over time makes it ever so slightly heavier.

The Guardian

When in use, Bcc strains were maintained in PIA (Pseudomonas Isolation Agar, BD) plates.

AMB Express

When in use, it gives a precise location and the exact time of day.

Forbes

When in use, the iPad snaps into the docking channel with the help of some strong magnets.

TechCrunch

When in use, the X1D is processing 8272 × 6200 pixel images, at an average of 1.7 to 2.3 frames per second.

TechCrunch

When in use, ODB++ data is stored in a hierarchy of files and file folders.

Wikipedia

When in use, the virtual guidance greatly contributes to avoiding these occurrences.

BioMed Research International

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "When in use" to clearly indicate the specific conditions or period during which certain instructions or observations apply. For instance, "The light illuminates only when in use" provides a clear understanding of when the light is expected to be on.

Common error

Avoid using "When in use" ambiguously; ensure the sentence clearly states what is in use. For example, instead of "Handle with care when in use", specify: "Handle the power drill with care when in use".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "When in use" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause by indicating the time or condition under which an action occurs. It specifies when something is happening or should be done. As shown by Ludwig, it correctly indicates that something should be activated or utilized during a specific time or condition.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

32%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "When in use" serves as a versatile and grammatically sound adverbial phrase, predominantly utilized to specify conditions or instructions during active utilization. Its broad applicability spans across various contexts, from news and media to scientific literature and general wikis, with a neutral register. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English.

When writing with "When in use", clarity is key; specify the object or system in question to avoid ambiguity. To enhance formality, alternatives like "During operation" or "Whilst in service" can be considered. Remember, the goal is to provide clear, context-specific guidance that ensures proper handling or understanding during the period of active use.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

During operation

Focuses on the process rather than the state of being used.

While in service

Emphasizes the functional aspect of being used or available.

In active mode

Highlights the state of being powered on and functioning.

Whilst being operated

Formal alternative emphasizing the action of operating something.

During utilization

Formal and specific to the act of using something.

In working order

Indicates that something is functional and ready to be used.

When activated

Focuses on the moment something is switched on or initiated.

In the process of being used

More verbose, emphasizing the ongoing action of using something.

Under normal usage

Specifies a typical or expected condition of use.

During active engagement

Emphasizes active participation or involvement with the item being used.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "When in use" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives such as "During operation", "Whilst in service", or "During utilization". Each of these "during operation" phrases adds a layer of professional or technical precision compared to the simpler "When in use".

Is it correct to say "While in use" instead of "When in use"?

Yes, "While in use" is grammatically correct and can often be used interchangeably with "When in use". However, "When in use" might be preferred when specifying a condition or trigger, whereas "While in use" emphasizes an ongoing activity.

What is the difference between "When in use" and "When being used"?

"When in use" is a more concise and direct way of saying "When being used". The latter is slightly more verbose but carries the same meaning. The choice often depends on the desired level of formality and sentence flow.

Can "When in use" be applied to both physical objects and software?

Yes, "When in use" can be applied to both physical objects (e.g., "The safety goggles must be worn when in use") and software (e.g., "The application requires an internet connection when in use"). The key is that something is actively being utilized.