be of better use

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be of better use" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the effectiveness or utility of something in a particular context. Example: "This new software update will help our team be of better use in managing projects more efficiently."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Mikoyan became a Special Representative of the State Defense Committee in 1941 by Stalin's orders; he was until that point not a member because Beria believed he would be of better use in government administration.

Wikipedia

However, for cell invasive bacteria plasminogen might be of better use in its activated form, the serine protease plasmin.

Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica

Indeed, it was argued that SNPs are not good at discriminating cases from controls but might be of better use in identifying men at high risk of PCa [ 34].

BioMed Research International

Don't be in the kitchen when you can be of better use elsewhere.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Ratner realized that one of the ways to force people from their homes is to make the case to local government that said space would be of better public use.

Vice

The focus of sustainable manufacturing is on better use of what is already out there.

The Guardian

36 There is evidence of better use of preventive services, such as screening services in diabetes, colorectal, breast and cervical cancer; cholesterol testing and immunisation.

BMJ Open

In 19% the recommendations were for better use of guidelines and following usual care.

BMJ Open

And the content is of better quality than it used to be.

Forbes

Could there be a better use of righteous indignation?

The New York Times

A free sudoku booklet for school leavers would be a better use of our taxes.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When suggesting improvements, use "be of better use" to directly compare the current state with a desired, more efficient outcome. For instance, "Investing in training will help employees "be of better use" to the company."

Common error

Avoid using "be of better use" when simply stating that something is useful. The phrase implies a comparison to a previous state or alternative. Instead of saying "This tool will be of better use", specify what it's better than or for.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be of better use" functions as a predicate adjective phrase, describing the state of being more useful or effective compared to something else. It often indicates an improvement or a superior alternative for a specific purpose. As noted by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically sound and contextually versatile.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be of better use" is a grammatically correct and functionally versatile expression that signifies improved utility or effectiveness. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, highlighting its applicability across various contexts, including news media, science, and general writing. While it's not exceedingly common, it offers a precise way to convey that something is more suitable or beneficial than an alternative. When employing this phrase, ensure that the comparative aspect is clear, either implicitly or explicitly, to avoid ambiguity. Remember, the phrase carries a neutral to professional tone, fitting for various communication needs, from suggesting improvements to advocating for more efficient solutions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be more effective

Focuses on the degree of effectiveness, omitting the "use" aspect.

be more useful

Highlights utility directly, without comparing it to a previous state.

be more advantageous

Emphasizes the benefits provided, shifting the focus from function to outcome.

serve a better purpose

Replaces "use" with "purpose", offering a more goal-oriented perspective.

be more appropriate

Indicates suitability rather than utility or effectiveness.

be more valuable

Stresses the worth or importance, diverging from the aspect of practical use.

have greater utility

Uses a more formal tone to express improved usefulness.

offer improved functionality

Focuses specifically on the functional aspects and their enhancement.

be a better option

Presents a choice between alternatives, implying improved suitability.

be more proficient

Highlights skill or expertise, differing from simple utility.

FAQs

How can I use "be of better use" in a sentence?

Use "be of better use" to indicate that something or someone is more effective or suitable for a particular purpose compared to something else. For example: "This strategy will "be of better use" than the previous one".

What is a synonym for "be of better use"?

Alternatives to "be of better use" include phrases like "be more effective", "be more useful", or "serve a better purpose". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "be of better use"?

Yes, "be of better use" is grammatically correct and commonly used in English. Ludwig AI confirms its validity based on numerous real-world examples.

What does "be of better use" imply?

"Be of better use" implies a comparison, suggesting that something is more helpful or effective in a given situation than another option or previous method. It highlights an improvement in utility or function.