dual use

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "dual use" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when referring to something that has two different uses. For example: "This product has a dual use as a cleaning solution and a fabric softener."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

Dual use: nice.

The Guardian - Tech

So would "dual use" goods that are largely civilian.

The Economist

"If this is dual use, then everything else is".

The New York Times

And how the embargo on military and dual use items would be enforced is not quite clear either.

The New York Times

"None of these things – capital markets, defence, dual use items, has ever been mentioned in EU documents.

The Guardian

(In export law-speak, the software was "dual use").

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

"Dual-use concurrently doesn't work".

The New York Times

We forged dual-use accents.

The New York Times

Saddam had rebuilt a dual-use industry.

The New York Times

He explained, "Everything here has a dual-use purpose".

The New Yorker

They are, in other words, a dual-use technology.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing technology or resources, clearly specify both uses to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "this is a dual use technology", say "this technology has a dual use in both civilian and military applications".

Common error

Avoid using "dual use" as a blanket term without providing specific examples of the two uses. Vague references can confuse the reader and weaken your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dual use" functions primarily as a compound adjective, modifying a noun to indicate that the noun has two distinct applications or purposes. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "dual use" accurately describes items or concepts with two distinct applications. As indicated by Ludwig, it functions primarily as a compound adjective, frequently appearing in News & Media, Science, and Wiki contexts. While grammatically sound, clarity is key: always specify the two uses to avoid vagueness. Common synonyms include "multi-purpose" and "double duty". Remember, ethical considerations often arise with "dual use", particularly in technology and research, warranting careful discussion and regulation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dual functionality

Specifically refers to the capacity to perform two distinct functions.

multi-purpose

Emphasizes having multiple purposes, often more than two, broadening the scope of functionality.

double duty

Suggests that something performs two roles or functions, often simultaneously.

twofold function

Highlights the existence of two distinct functions or purposes.

multiple applications

Focuses on the various practical uses or applications of something.

combined use

Highlights the simultaneous or integrated use of something for different purposes.

versatile use

Indicates adaptability and usability in different situations or for various purposes.

shared purpose

Indicates that something serves more than one objective or aim.

two-way

Implies a reciprocal or bidirectional capability, suitable in specific contexts.

flexible application

Stresses the ability to be used in varied ways or for different tasks.

FAQs

What does "dual use" mean?

The term "dual use" refers to something that can be used for two different purposes, often one peaceful and one potentially harmful, such as a technology with both civilian and military applications.

How is "dual use" typically used in a sentence?

Typically, "dual use" is used as an adjective to describe a noun. For example, "This is a "dual use technology"" or "The facility has a "dual use capability"".

What are some synonyms for "dual use"?

Synonyms for "dual use" include "multi-purpose", "double duty", or "twofold function" depending on the specific context.

What are the implications of "dual use" in technology and research?

In technology and research, "dual use" raises ethical concerns because something intended for good may be repurposed for harmful ends. This necessitates careful oversight and regulation, especially in areas like biotechnology and nuclear energy.