be of use

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'be of use' is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to express that something or someone is useful or helpful in some way. For example, "We have collected all of this data - I hope it will be of use to us".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Posner wonders how Chekhov's unique wisdom can be of use to us.

Los Angeles Times

"For serious music cannot be of use".

The New York Times - Books

"We needed to be of use".

The New Yorker

I like to be of use in this world.

The New York Times - Magazine

He knew enough chemistry to be of use.

The New York Times - Books

I had to be of use to someone".

The New York Times

He saw everything and everyone who might be of use.

The New York Times - Arts

These lines, if not polite, Will be of use, I hope.

The Guardian - Books

It is not expected to be of use in treating a shingles attack.

The New York Times - Health

He knows what they are and where they are; they can be of use one day.

The New Yorker

It is a real joy to be of use to a new writer of your quality.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be of use", ensure the context clearly indicates who or what benefits from the utility. For example, "This information will be of use to researchers studying climate change."

Common error

While "be of use" is a valid phrase, avoid using it in overly casual settings where simpler alternatives like "helpful" or "useful" would sound more natural. Reserve it for more formal or professional communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be of use" functions primarily as a predicate adjective, describing the quality or state of something being beneficial or helpful. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage in various contexts, emphasizing its role in expressing utility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

32%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be of use" is a common and grammatically sound way to express that something or someone is helpful or beneficial. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use in various contexts. Analysis of example sentences reveals its prevalence in News & Media and Scientific domains, indicating a register that is typically neutral to professional. While alternatives such as "prove useful" or "be helpful" exist, "be of use" carries a nuance of specific applicability or service. When writing, consider the context to ensure the appropriate level of formality and clarity. Remember that this phrase weakens in informal context and can be replaced.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be helpful

A more direct and general way of expressing utility, lacking the nuanced implication of 'service'.

be of assistance

A more formal alternative, emphasizing the act of providing aid or support.

be beneficial

Emphasizes the positive advantages or gains provided.

prove useful

Focuses on the outcome of being helpful or beneficial, shifting the emphasis from potential to demonstrated utility.

be advantageous

Stresses the competitive edge or strategic benefit conferred.

serve a purpose

Highlights the function or reason for something's existence or action.

contribute

Highlights the act of adding value or assistance to a larger effort or outcome.

be instrumental

Indicates a crucial role in achieving a particular result.

lend itself to

Suggests a natural suitability or aptitude for a specific purpose.

avail oneself of

This is more formal, and it refers to take advantage of an opportunity or use something that is available.

FAQs

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

You can use "be of use" to indicate that something or someone is helpful or beneficial. For example, "This software may "prove useful" in data analysis" or "I hope my skills can "be of assistance" to the team".

What are some alternatives to "be of use"?

Alternatives include "be helpful", "prove useful", "be beneficial", or "serve a purpose". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "be of use" or "be useful"?

"Be of use" and "be useful" are both correct, but they have slightly different connotations. "Be of use" often implies a specific application or service, while "be useful" is more general. In many cases, they are interchangeable, but "be of use" can sound more formal.

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

"Be of use" suggests general helpfulness or utility, while "be of service" implies a more direct and intentional act of providing assistance. "Be of service" often has a stronger connotation of duty or obligation.