be of more use

USAGE SUMMARY

"be of more use" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe something that has been helpful, or to point out that something could be more helpful in the future. For example: "The classes I've taken have been of some use, but I think learning a new language would be of more use in getting a job abroad."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

They'd be of more use here.

The New Yorker

Surely that would be of more use?

The Guardian - Opinion

"I think I can probably be of more use".

The New York Times

Surely I'd be of more use living out my faith working with these people?

The Guardian

Which, who knows, may ultimately be of more use than knowing what 7 times 7 equals.

The New York Times - Arts

But Levidis settled on a different idea which would be of more use to the people he saw arriving.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

I only wished I could have given him something that would have been of more use - confidence, or good luck.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

They were of more use to the cause, they were told, using their local knowledge to attack New York City than they were in Muslim lands.

The New Yorker

However, these figures are of more use in assessing long-term educational trends than they are in evaluating the impact of any recent reforms.

The Guardian

That is when a waterproof coat is of more use than a sun top and where sturdy flat sandals are needed to squelch through the mud.

The New York Times

Exponents of enlightened absolutism, as well as parliamentarians, recognized that the subject was of more use to the state if he had a school education.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing options, use "be of more use" to clearly articulate which choice offers greater practical benefit or effectiveness. For example, “Investing in renewable energy will "be of more use" in the long run than relying solely on fossil fuels.”

Common error

Avoid using "be of more use" in overly passive constructions. Instead of saying "It is believed that this method will "be of more use"," opt for a more direct and active phrasing like, "This method will prove more useful."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be of more use" functions as a comparative expression, indicating that one thing is more beneficial or effective than another. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, supported by numerous examples of its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

31%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be of more use" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to compare the relative utility or effectiveness of different options. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness, supported by a diverse range of examples from news, science, and general knowledge sources. While the phrase can be used in neutral contexts, it often appears in more formal and professional communication. When writing, consider the potential for passive voice and aim for direct, active phrasing to maximize clarity. Remember that this phrase compares things or actions based on their usefulness, therefore consider "prove more beneficial" or "be more helpful" alternatives based on the specific need. By following these guidelines, you can confidently and effectively incorporate the phrase "be of more use" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

prove more beneficial

Emphasizes the advantageous outcome of something.

serve a better purpose

Highlights the intended function and its improved suitability.

be more advantageous

Focuses on the beneficial aspects and superior position.

be more effective

Highlights the increased efficiency and impact.

have greater utility

Stresses the practical application and usefulness.

be more helpful

Directly indicates an increase in assistance provided.

offer a greater advantage

Emphasizes the benefits and competitive edge provided.

be more valuable

Highlights the increased worth or importance.

better serve its function

Focuses on the improved performance of its designed task.

be a better option

Suggests it is a superior choice among alternatives.

FAQs

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

You can use "be of more use" to suggest that something is more helpful or beneficial than something else. For example, "In the long run, investing in education will "be of more use" than short-term financial gains."

What are some alternatives to "be of more use"?

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

Which is correct, "be of more use" or "be more useful"?

Both "be of more use" and "be more useful" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. "Be of more use" might be slightly more formal, while "be more useful" is more direct.

What's the difference between "be of more use" and "be more helpful"?

"Be of more use" implies greater utility or practicality in achieving a specific outcome. "Be more helpful" suggests providing more assistance or support. The distinction lies in whether you're emphasizing practical value or supportive aid.