being used

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "being used" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the state of something that is currently in operation or application. Example: "The software is being used by thousands of people around the world."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Now that is being used against us.

Independent

He's being used".

The New Yorker

"Heavy weapons are being used.

Independent

Am I being used?

The New York Times

"They're being used".

The New York Times

It's being used more".

The New York Times - Health

What's being used here?

Yale University

She is being used.

The Guardian - Opinion

As in, while it's being used.

Independent

Now it's being used in robberies.

The New York Times

Question: Is this still being used?

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a process or state where something is actively in operation, use "being used" to clearly indicate ongoing utilization. For example, "The data is being used to improve the algorithm".

Common error

Avoid using "being used" excessively in passive voice constructions, as it can make your writing sound cumbersome. Consider active voice alternatives for more direct and engaging prose. For instance, instead of "The tool is being used by the team", try "The team uses the tool".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "being used" functions as a present continuous passive construction, indicating an action that is currently happening to a subject. Ludwig provides examples illustrating its widespread use in various contexts, from describing equipment operation to highlighting exploitation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Science

7%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "being used" functions as a versatile and frequently employed present continuous passive construction, indicating an ongoing state of utilization. Ludwig AI highlights that its grammatical structure is considered correct and suitable for diverse contexts, particularly in news and media, as well as wiki-style content. While versatile, writers should be mindful of overuse in passive constructions, aiming for active voice when appropriate. Alternatives like "in use" or "utilized" offer subtle shifts in meaning and formality. By understanding its function and context, "being used" can be employed effectively to convey current states of application.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

put to use

Highlights the action of initiating the use of something, unlike the continuous state implied by "being used".

in use

Focuses on the state of active employment or operation, differing from the process-oriented nature of "being used".

applied

Focuses on the practical implementation or relevance of something in a particular situation.

employed

Indicates the active engagement or deployment of something for a specific purpose.

utilized

Highlights a more formal or technical application than the general term "being used".

in service

Emphasizes the functional status or role of something rather than the action of using it.

exploited

Implies unfair or selfish use, adding a negative connotation absent in "being used".

harnessed

Conveys the idea of controlling and directing power or resources, which adds a layer of control beyond simple usage.

manipulated

Suggests skillful handling or control, which may or may not be present in instances of "being used".

taken advantage of

Suggests that someone or something is benefiting unfairly from a situation or person, which is more specific than the general term "being used".

FAQs

How can I rephrase "being used" to sound more formal?

To achieve a more formal tone, consider alternatives such as "utilized", "employed", or "applied", depending on the specific context.

What's the difference between "being used" and "in use"?

"Being used" implies an ongoing action or process, whereas "in use" indicates a state of current operation or functionality. For example, "The equipment is being used for testing" versus "The equipment is in use now".

When is it appropriate to use "being used" instead of a more direct verb?

Use "being used" when you want to emphasize the process or action of utilization rather than the object or subject performing the action. It's particularly suitable in passive voice constructions where the focus is on what is happening to something.

How can I avoid sounding repetitive when using "being used" frequently?

Vary your sentence structure and consider using synonyms such as "exploited" or "manipulated" if appropriate, to add nuance and reduce repetition. Also, try restructuring sentences to use active voice where possible.