best used

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "best used" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate the most effective or appropriate way to utilize something. Example: "This tool is best used for small repairs around the house."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

All are best used with other resources.

The Economist

This remedy is best used sporadically.

The New York Times - Health

They are best used before symptoms occur.

The New York Times

Patient simulation seems best used with beginning medical students.

The New York Times - Science

It is a sanction best used sparingly, if at all.

The Guardian

Therefore, they are best used as single crystals.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Progress is a word best used in scare quotes.

The New York Times - Arts

Maltin argues that technology is best used to help understand a company's reputation online.

The Guardian

But Ms. Giffen's talents are best used when she abandons the miniaturist mode.

The New York Times - Food

This finish is best used on walls that are not perfectly smooth.

The New York Times

"It's best used as an assassination weapon or a food contaminant," Dr. Allswede said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "best used", ensure the context clearly specifies what the subject is being used for and why it is the most effective approach. This adds clarity and strengthens your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "best used" without providing specific reasons or evidence to support why that particular usage is superior. Vague statements weaken your argument and leave room for doubt.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "best used" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase modifying a noun or pronoun. It indicates the most effective or appropriate method for utilizing something. As supported by Ludwig AI, its grammatical correctness is confirmed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

32%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "best used" is a versatile and grammatically correct way to express the most effective or appropriate method for utilizing something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is commonly found across various contexts, including news media, wikis, and scientific publications. To ensure clarity and impact, specify why the recommended usage is superior and avoid vague statements. Consider alternatives like "most effectively utilized" or "ideally employed" to fine-tune your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

most effectively utilized

Emphasizes the efficiency and effectiveness of the usage.

ideally employed

Suggests the perfect or most suitable application.

optimally applied

Focuses on achieving the best possible outcome through careful application.

appropriately used

Highlights the suitability and correctness of the usage.

most suitable for

Indicates that something is particularly well-matched for a specific purpose.

primarily intended for

Specifies the main purpose or design of something.

chiefly recommended for

Suggests a strong recommendation for a particular application.

works best when

Highlights the conditions under which something is most effective.

designed for

Emphasizes the intended purpose or functionality of a design.

specifically for

Focuses on a very particular or tailored application.

FAQs

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

You can use "best used" to describe the most effective way to utilize something. For example, "This tool is "best used" for small repairs around the house."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "best used"?

Alternatives include "most effectively utilized", "ideally employed", or "optimally applied" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "best used"?

Yes, "best used" is grammatically correct and commonly used in English to indicate the most suitable or effective way to utilize something.

What is the difference between "best used" and "commonly used"?

"Best used" implies the most effective or ideal application, while "commonly used" simply means frequently used, regardless of effectiveness. Something can be commonly used but not "best used".