generally used for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "generally used for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the common purpose or application of something in a general context. Example: "This tool is generally used for measuring distances accurately in various fields."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It was generally used for figures.

Britannica

Piezoelectric dynamometer are generally used for force measuring.

International Journal of Machine Tools and Manufacture

The figure 300,000 is generally used for the North Vietnamese Army's unaccounted-for losses.

The New York Times

Ms. Willis explained that they were cucumbers, too, but were generally used for pickles.

The New York Times

It's as she expected, a steno notebook generally used for reportage.

The New Yorker

Syrup made from corn syrup and sugar is now generally used for fondant.

Britannica

Instead the money was restricted to bollard fencing, and it was generally used for replacement fencing.

The Washington Post

As a light-role battalion it is generally used for operational tours.

The Guardian

In the case of a daily newspaper, one form is generally used for each page.

Britannica

It is generally used for emotionally charged roles strong masculine characters, mythological gods, and beasts.

Britannica

It's generally used for low-grade ore that would be otherwise too expensive to mine.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the typical application of a tool, material, or method, "generally used for" provides a clear and concise way to convey its common purpose. For instance, "This software is generally used for data analysis."

Common error

Avoid using "generally used for" without providing context or specific examples. Instead of saying "It's generally used for things", be specific: "It's generally used for cleaning delicate surfaces."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "generally used for" functions as a descriptor, specifying the typical or common application of something. Ludwig confirms its acceptability. It connects a subject with its usual purpose, as seen in examples like "Syrup made from corn syrup and sugar is now generally used for fondant."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Encyclopedias

23%

News & Media

38%

Science

30%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Academia

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "generally used for" is a versatile descriptor indicating the typical application of something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across diverse sources. As the data shows, it frequently appears in news articles, encyclopedias, and scientific literature, showcasing its adaptability across different registers. The best practice is to use it to clearly convey the usual purpose of a subject, while avoiding overgeneralizations. Remember, being specific enhances clarity. Alternatives include "typically employed for" or "commonly utilized for".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

typically employed for

Replaces "generally" with "typically" and "used" with "employed", suggesting a standard or common application.

commonly utilized for

Substitutes "generally" with "commonly" and "used" with "utilized", emphasizing widespread use.

frequently applied to

Replaces "used for" with "applied to", focusing on the action of applying something for a particular purpose.

primarily intended for

Changes "used" to "intended", highlighting the main purpose or design.

mainly designated for

Replaces "generally used" with "mainly designated", emphasizing the primary assignment or purpose.

often implemented for

Substitutes "used" with "implemented", focusing on the practical application or execution.

customarily reserved for

Replaces "generally used" with "customarily reserved", highlighting a traditional or established use.

traditionally utilized for

Emphasizes a historical or long-standing practice of using something for a specific purpose.

widely adopted for

Highlights the widespread acceptance and use of something for a particular purpose.

conventionally employed in

Focuses on established or standard practices in a particular field or context.

FAQs

What are some alternatives to "generally used for"?

You can use phrases like "typically employed for", "commonly utilized for", or "primarily intended for" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

How can I use "generally used for" in a sentence?

To use "generally used for" effectively, state the item or concept first, followed by "is generally used for" and then its common application. For example, "A hammer is generally used for driving nails."

Is it correct to say "generally use for" instead of "generally used for"?

No, "generally use for" is grammatically incorrect. The correct form is "generally used for", where "used" is the past participle, indicating the state of being used.

What's the difference between "generally used for" and "specifically used for"?

"Generally used for" implies a common or typical application, while "specifically used for" indicates a designated or particular purpose. For example, a wrench is generally used for tightening bolts, but a torque wrench is specifically used for tightening bolts to a precise torque.