could only be used

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "could only be used" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that something has a limited usage. Example: This specialized machine could only be used for one specific task.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

iTouches could only be used for music.

The New York Times

The closed procedures could only be used in cases where "national security" was at risk.

The Guardian

The roads between the villages could only be used during the dry season.

The New York Times

If it could only be used for one, it would be Bowie.

Independent

The mill, however, could only be used where the current flow was suitable for grinding.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It would cost, say, £15 a call to defray lost fees, and the number could only be used once.

The Guardian - Opinion

Most soft money could only be used indirectly, advocating positions that the party supported and criticizing policies of the opposition.

The New York Times

And money in this account could only be used for retirement, or passed along as an inheritance.

The New York Times

Before it was introduced, the Home Secretary's powers of proscription could only be used against organisations directly involved in terrorism.

Independent

Britain said several months ago that Iraq had been buying "significant quantities" of uranium from Africa that could only be used in an enrichment program.

The New York Times

Among the requirements: the money could only be used for retail or commercial purposes, not to build housing, and it had to be done by for-profit entities.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "could only be used", ensure the limitation or restriction is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For instance, specify what the item could be used for and what it could not.

Common error

Avoid using "could only be used" in situations where an active voice would make the sentence more direct and impactful. For example, instead of "The tool could only be used by experts", consider "Only experts could use the tool".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "could only be used" functions as a modal verb phrase, indicating a past ability or permission that was limited or restricted. As Ludwig AI explains, it is used to express that something had a limited usage. It shows what was possible or allowed within certain constraints.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

33%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "could only be used" is a versatile phrase used to denote limited or restricted usage, frequently appearing in both news and scientific contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. While grammatically sound, remember to specify the limitation clearly and consider using active voice where appropriate. As we have seen from the examples provided by Ludwig, it's important to consider context and style when deciding whether to employ this modal verb phrase. Alternatives include "was limited to" or "was restricted to" for similar meanings with slight tonal variations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

was limited to

This option indicates a clear boundary or constraint on how something is used.

was intended only for

This indicates that something was purposed with the intention to be used for something alone.

was restricted to

This alternative suggests a formal limitation or restriction on the usage.

is strictly for

Suggests the limited usage is mandatory and has to be something alone.

was solely for

This alternative highlights that the usage is exclusive and for one purpose only.

was exclusively for

It emphasizes that something is uniquely meant for the described purpose.

can exclusively be utilized for

This is a more formal way of saying something is specifically to be employed for something alone.

was designed solely for

This implies a deliberate intention that something serves a specific and single purpose.

may only be employed for

Indicates the permitted application of something, with a formal tone.

is uniquely applicable for

It conveys that something is particularly suited or designed for a specific purpose.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "could only be used" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives such as "was restricted to", "was limited to", or "may only be employed for". Each of these options carries a slightly more elevated register.

What's a simpler way to say "could only be used"?

Simpler alternatives include phrases like "was just for" or "was only for". These options are more direct and less verbose than "could only be used".

Is there a difference between "could only be used" and "can only be used"?

"Could only be used" typically refers to a past restriction or limitation, while "can only be used" refers to a present or ongoing restriction. For example: "The software could only be used on Windows XP" (past) versus "The software can only be used on Windows 10" (present).

How do I specify the single purpose for which something "could only be used"?

To clearly specify the purpose, follow the phrase with "for" plus the specific use. For instance, "The grant could only be used for research expenses" clearly defines the limitation.