find a use

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "find a use" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you are suggesting that someone needs to identify a purpose or reason for something. For example, "I have this extra material, so let's try to find a use for it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

So they give them to us and we find a use for them".

Vice

The Chinese find a use for everything.

The Guardian

You'll find a use for all five of them.

The New Yorker

And the billions it raises should find a use.

The New York Times

Laptop users might find a use for it if they're already using full screen apps.

The Guardian - Tech

Chinese consumers are not yet ready to find a use for all those microchips.

The New York Times

At the start, you wonder how all the props are going to find a use.

The Guardian

I'll find a use for it when some politician clams up.

The New York Times - Magazine

These materials, he hopes, might find a use in anti-ballistic clothes.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

BCG in newborns is still in use in many tropical countries and newer non-replicating vaccines might find a use in adults.

BMC Cancer

School's out for summer, but you should still be able to find a use for the Belkin TuneTalk Stereo.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In technical writing, "find a use" can highlight the innovative applications of a new technology or material.

Common error

Don't overcomplicate the search for utility. Sometimes, the best use is the most obvious one. Focus on practical and immediate needs before exploring complex scenarios.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "find a use" primarily functions as a verb phrase, typically used within a clause. It expresses the action of discovering or identifying a purpose or application for something. As Ludwig AI highlights, the phrase is widely accepted and employed in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Academia

24%

Science

18%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "find a use" is a versatile and commonly employed expression used to indicate the process of discovering or identifying a purpose for something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide acceptance. Its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts, ranging from news and media to academic writing. When seeking alternatives, consider options like "discover a purpose" or "identify an application", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember to focus on practical applications and avoid overcomplicating the search for utility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

discover a purpose

Emphasizes the act of uncovering or realizing a previously unknown purpose.

identify an application

Highlights the process of pinpointing a specific practical use or application.

determine its utility

Focuses on assessing the usefulness or functionality of something.

devise a function

Implies creating or inventing a specific function for something.

put it to work

A more informal way of saying to actively begin using something for a task.

exploit its potential

Suggests leveraging something's inherent capabilities to achieve a goal.

figure out a way to use it

An informal alternative emphasizing the problem-solving aspect.

ascertain its relevance

Focuses on establishing the importance or pertinence of something.

create an opportunity

Highlights the act of developing an occasion to utilize something.

make it useful

A straightforward expression indicating the action of rendering something usable.

FAQs

How can I incorporate "find a use" into my writing?

Use "find a use" when you want to express the need to identify a purpose or application for something. For instance, "We must "find a use" for this abandoned building" suggests exploring possible functions for the structure.

What are some alternatives to "find a use"?

Depending on the context, you can substitute "find a use" with phrases like "discover a purpose", "identify an application", or "determine its utility".

Is "find a use" formal or informal?

"Find a use" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, for highly formal writing, consider alternatives like "identify an application" for a more sophisticated tone.

How does the meaning of "find a use" differ from "make use of"?

"Find a use" implies an active search for a purpose, while "make use of" suggests already knowing the purpose and utilizing it. You "find a use" when you're unsure of the item's utility, and you "make use of" something when you're applying it for its intended or a known purpose.