current usage

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "current usage" is correct and is used in written English.
You can use it to refer to the particular way language is used at the present time. For example: "The meaning of the word 'chill' has shifted significantly over the past few decades, and current usage suggests that it is more often used to refer to something calming or enjoyable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Current usage only confirms this historical pedigree.

Cornell University

Current usage statistics quoted are 200K users and 1K servers.

The Washington Post

But it was really shrub.com's post that coined the phrase and established the still current usage.

The Guardian

" 'Fundamentalist' evokes fear, suspicion, and other repulsive connotations in its current usage.

The New Yorker

Errett is correct about current usage, which dates to the early part of the last century.

The New York Times - Magazine

In its current usage, the elided word gotcha is an attributive noun modifying journalism or politics or, alliteratively, gang.

The New York Times - Magazine

Freedom fighter, once an honored designation, has been corrupted in current usage by insurgents or terrorists claiming the title.

The New York Times

In current usage, the adjective means "pulpy, mealy," an onomatopoeic alteration of the noun mash, a thick, boiled cereal.

The New York Times - Magazine

But in current usage, the fog of war has come to mean "the confusion that attends the smoke of battle".

The New York Times - Magazine

"Central Park at Twilight" tours the park examining its original design and purpose, history and current usage.

The New York Times - Arts

"I am very annoyed at the current usage of the term architect," writes Fran Read, who is one.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing the evolution of language or technology, use "current usage" to contrast with historical or obsolete practices, providing a clear understanding of present-day applications.

Common error

Avoid using "current usage" when referring to past practices. Ensure you're describing how something is used or understood now, not how it was used in the past.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "current usage" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI's analysis and examples confirm its role in describing present-day practices or interpretations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Academia

15%

Science

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "current usage" is a versatile phrase used to denote the prevailing application, interpretation, or practice of something at the present time. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used in various contexts, especially in news, academic writing, and scientific discourse. When employing this phrase, it's crucial to focus on the present-day aspect and distinguish it from historical or outdated practices. The many examples listed show how versatile the phrase is.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

present-day usage

Replaces "current" with "present-day", emphasizing the contemporary nature of the usage.

contemporary application

Substitutes "usage" with "application", highlighting the practical implementation in modern times.

modern employment

Replaces "usage" with "employment", focusing on how something is currently put to work or utilized.

prevailing use

Emphasizes the widespread acceptance and commonness of the usage.

accepted practice

Focuses on the usage as a standard or conventional method.

common interpretation

Highlights the current understanding or meaning attributed to something.

up-to-date method

Emphasizes the novelty and recency of the approach.

latest trend

Positions the usage as a popular or fashionable practice.

actual implementation

Highlights the concrete execution of something in the present.

ongoing application

Emphasizes that the usage is continuous and not a one-time event.

FAQs

How can I use "current usage" in a sentence?

You might say, "The "current usage" of the term 'algorithm' often includes machine learning applications" or "An analysis of "current usage" patterns reveals a shift toward mobile devices".

What are some alternatives to "current usage"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "present-day usage", "contemporary application", or "accepted practice" to convey a similar meaning. Refer to the related phrases section for further alternatives.

Is it correct to say "recent usage" instead of "current usage"?

While "recent usage" isn't incorrect, ""current usage"" emphasizes the present, ongoing application, while "recent usage" might imply something that has emerged lately but may or may not be sustained.

How does "current usage" differ from "common usage"?

"Current usage" specifically refers to how something is used at this present time, whereas "common usage" denotes widespread or general practices, regardless of the time period.