be of most use

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be of most 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 tool will be of most use when you are working on complex projects that require detailed analysis."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

What I mean to suggest is that Bergman's film can be of most use to us if we allow it to happen to us, again and again, until its rhythms have been fully absorbed and can sooth or anger us as we are freed from its narrative surprises.

Encyclopedia Britannica

However, the feature that will be of most use to the novice is the tactics engine, making it a doddle to get your team playing how you want.

The Guardian - Sport

The film will be of most use, perhaps, to anyone who is teaching "Pride and Prejudice" to a bunch of teen-agers.

The New Yorker

Koestler became a Communist in Berlin, in 1931, but he remained undercover, in order not to compromise his position at the newspaper, where it was felt he could be of most use to the Party.

The New Yorker

Why would you want to go back to Gaza?' I said simply that my roots are here, and that's where I think my education can be of most use.

The New York Times

As a security measure his cellphone has been disconnected, which means that his increasingly desperate former colleagues are unable to find him when he might be of most use.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

Unlike Alzheimer's or other age-related neurological problems, autism spectrum disorders develop early, and the brains of children and young adults with autism are of most use to researchers.

The New York Times - Health

Testicular cancer is where PET is of most use in uro-oncology.

Cancer Imaging

Environmental data are of most use when there is a single predominant environmental matrix such as air involved in the exposure pathway.

Environmental Health Perspectives

In the end it is the biological question underlying the design that decides where probes are of most efficient use.

Plosone

Ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA) is one of most used polymer modifiers in PMAs.

Construction and Building Materials

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be of most use", consider the specific context and audience. For formal settings, ensure the surrounding language matches the level of formality. In technical contexts, define precisely how something will "be of most use".

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the benefits of something when claiming it will "be of most use". Ground the statement in realistic terms, providing clear evidence or explanation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be of most use" functions as a predicate adjective phrase, typically modifying a noun or pronoun to describe its potential for providing the greatest benefit or utility. Ludwig AI identifies this as a valid and usable construct. For example, "This tool will be of most use when analyzing complex data."

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be of most use" is a grammatically sound and commonly employed expression used to indicate the optimal application or situation where something will provide the maximum benefit. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability across various contexts, particularly in scientific, news, and encyclopedic sources. When employing this phrase, consider tailoring your language to match the context and avoid overstating the utility of the subject matter. Alternatives like "be most helpful" or "be most effective" can be considered for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be most useful

A more direct synonym, simply emphasizing usability.

be most helpful

Focuses on the assistance provided, rather than the overall utility.

be most beneficial

Emphasizes the advantages gained, shifting the focus to positive outcomes.

be most advantageous

Highlights the strategic or tactical edge provided.

be most effective

Stresses the capability to produce a desired result.

be most valuable

Highlights worth and importance, shifting the focus to contribution.

prove most effective

Emphasizes the demonstration of effectiveness over time.

serve best

Focuses on the act of serving a purpose or need.

work best

Highlights optimal functionality or performance.

offer the greatest benefit

Focuses specifically on the offering of advantages.

FAQs

How can I replace "be of most use" in a sentence?

You can replace "be of most use" with alternatives such as "be most helpful", "be most beneficial", or "be most effective" depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "be of most use"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase "be of most use" is perfectly valid in English and commonly used in various contexts.

What is the difference between "be of most use" and "be most useful"?

While both phrases are similar, "be of most use" can sometimes imply a broader sense of utility or benefit, whereas "be most useful" focuses more directly on usability. In many cases, they are interchangeable.

In what contexts is "be of most use" typically employed?

The phrase "be of most use" is frequently employed in academic, scientific, and professional contexts when assessing or recommending the best application of a tool, method, or resource. Example contexts could be in research, news or encyclopedias.