Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
be of some utility
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "be of some utility" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the usefulness or practicality of something in a particular context. Example: "The new software update may not be perfect, but it will be of some utility in improving system performance."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
7 human-written examples
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) has been used to treat chronic pain syndromes and has been reported to be of some utility in the treatment of postsurgical pain.
Science
The size of this effect depends on many parameters, but it is important to recognize it exists and that accounting for it may be of some utility.
We respectfully disagree with Dr. Jordan that normalized data can be of some utility in correlation analysis.
Science
Although not necessarily similar to physiological pI, our predicted pI values reflect sequence properties which may be of some utility.
Science
Although comparisons with epidemiological data might be of some utility, any inferences should be interpreted with this caveat in mind.
Science
Aleuria aurantia lectin for example has affinity for α 1-2, -3, -4 and α 1-6 fucosylated glycans [ 12, 47], and might be of some utility, perhaps in combination with ConA.
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
52 human-written examples
This sort of sludge may or may not prove to be of some slight utility in the 2012 Republican primaries, but it is, increasingly, history.
News & Media
This sort of sludge may or may not prove to be of some slight utility in the 2012 Republican primaries, but it is, increasingly, history.> Ron Mitchell Senior Producer, The O'Reilly Factor Fox News ChannelRemnick's reply, later that day: Dear Mr. Mitchell, Thank you for your email.
News & Media
Thus, although LTB4 antagonism has proved to be of some clinical utility in pulmonary inflammation, it has yet to be properly tested in chronic human synovitis.
Therefore, among some teleost species CNE markers could be of high utility in identifying distinct homologous chromosomes within the genomes.
Science
My arms could be of much utility...
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Consider the context to ensure the level of formality is appropriate. While generally acceptable, it can sometimes sound slightly formal, particularly in very casual settings.
Common error
Avoid using "be of some utility" when describing something that is actually highly effective or essential. This phrase implies a limited or moderate level of usefulness, so overusing it can create a sense of understatement.
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
4.3/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "be of some utility" functions as a predicate adjective phrase, modifying a subject by ascribing a quality of usefulness, albeit limited. It expresses that something possesses a certain degree of practical value or helpfulness, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples.
Frequent in
Science
71%
News & Media
29%
Formal & Business
0%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
0%
Wiki
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "be of some utility" is a grammatically sound and acceptable expression used to indicate that something has a limited or moderate degree of usefulness. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is suitable for diverse contexts and commonly appears in scientific and news-related sources. When using this phrase, consider the specific level of benefit you wish to convey, and avoid using it if you intend to describe something exceptionally useful or important. Alternatives like "be somewhat useful" or "have limited value" may also be considered based on the context.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
be of practical use
Focuses specifically on the practicality and applicability of something.
be somewhat useful
Indicates a moderate degree of usefulness, similar to the original phrase but less formal.
be slightly helpful
Suggests a small degree of assistance or benefit.
have limited value
Implies the usefulness is restricted or not extensive.
be of limited benefit
Similar to "have limited value", but focuses on the advantages it provides.
be marginally useful
Highlights that something might barely reach the threshold of being useful.
serve a purpose
Highlights that something fulfills a specific function or aim.
offer some advantages
Focuses on the positive aspects and benefits that something provides.
possess some merit
Indicates that something has positive qualities or worth, though not necessarily practical use.
have a role to play
Suggests that something is involved or important in a certain situation or process.
FAQs
How can I use "be of some utility" in a sentence?
You can use "be of some utility" to suggest that something has a degree of usefulness. For example, "Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation has been reported to "be of some utility" in the treatment of postsurgical pain".
What are some alternatives to "be of some utility"?
Alternatives include "be somewhat useful", "be slightly helpful", or "have limited value", depending on the degree of usefulness you want to convey.
When is it appropriate to use "be of some utility"?
It is appropriate when you want to indicate that something has a moderate level of usefulness, without implying it is essential or highly effective. It's suitable in both formal and semi-formal contexts.
What is the difference between "be of some utility" and "be very useful"?
"Be of some utility" suggests a limited or moderate level of usefulness, while "be very useful" indicates a high degree of effectiveness and importance. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the actual level of benefit.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
4.3/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested