be used

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be used" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is applicable or can be utilized in a certain context. Example: "This tool can be used to improve productivity in the workplace."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Should they be used?

The New York Times

Force must be used.

The New York Times

No soda should be used.

The New York Times

Only six would be used.

The New Yorker

What airplanes would be used?

Encyclopedia Britannica

But this should be used".

The New York Times - Books

It can be used again.

The Economist

But will they be used?

The Economist

What media should be used?

Encyclopedia Britannica

That money will be used.

Independent

They should be used conservatively.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, ensure that the subject that is "be used" is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of 'It can be used', specify 'This tool can be used'.

Common error

Avoid using "be used" excessively in passive constructions, as it can make your writing sound weak and indirect. Opt for active voice where appropriate for a more impactful statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be used" primarily functions as a passive verb construction, indicating that a subject is the recipient of an action. As Ludwig AI explains, this indicates applicability or utilization in a given scenario. It is useful in academic, news, and general writing.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

27%

Science

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be used" is a versatile and prevalent passive verb construction signifying the utilization or applicability of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and appears across a wide range of contexts, from news articles to scientific papers and general how-to guides. Its neutral tone makes it suitable for both formal and informal writing, though careful consideration should be given to avoid overuse of passive voice. Alternative phrases like "be utilized" or "be employed" can add nuance depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be utilized

Focuses on a more formal and technical sense of using something.

be employed

Implies a deliberate and purposeful application or deployment.

be applied

Highlights the act of putting something to a specific task or purpose.

be leveraged

Suggests maximizing the benefit or advantage derived from something.

be consumed

Emphasizes the depletion or exhaustion of a resource through usage.

be exercised

Implies the active application of a right, power, or skill.

be operated

Refers specifically to the act of using machinery or equipment.

be handled

Focuses on the manner or method in which something is used or managed.

be adopted

Emphasizes the act of choosing to use something new or different.

be implemented

Highlights the process of putting a plan or system into effect.

FAQs

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

The phrase "be used" indicates that something is being utilized or employed for a specific purpose. For example, "This software can "be used" to analyze data".

What are some alternatives to "be used"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "be utilized", "be employed", or "be applied".

Is it better to use active or passive voice with "be used"?

While "be used" is a passive construction, it's often appropriate. However, using active voice can make your writing more direct. For instance, instead of "The tool can "be used"", consider "You can use the tool".

What's the difference between "be used" and "used to"?

"Be used" indicates current utilization, while "used to" refers to a past habit or state. For example, "This room will "be used" for meetings" vs. "I "used to" live here".