have begun using

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "have begun using" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone has started to utilize something recently or in the present. Example: "We have begun using a new software tool to improve our workflow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It informs us that Hollywood studios have begun using the services of a wonk named Vinny Bruzzese.

Huffington Post

Now event designers have begun using hydrated crystals for displays.

The New York Times

Now French candidates, like their American counterparts, have begun using their families as campaign props.

The New Yorker

In fact, all three networks have begun using dramatic reenactments in news programs.

The New Yorker

Already a small number of libraries have begun using recruiting videos and even a Web site.

The New York Times

Students have begun using them to learn everything from geometry to genetics.

The New Yorker

But lately, even much smaller companies have begun using the service.

The New York Times

Some restaurants have begun using the word souffle to describe almost anything.

The New York Times - Food

Iranian officials have begun using similar language to sell the deal.

The New Yorker

A number of Republicans have begun using their life sagas to support similar theories.

The New York Times

Instead, scientists have begun using satellite-based systems that do not require ground-based components.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, ensure that "have begun using" is followed by a specific object or action. For instance, "They have begun using a new software" is clearer than "They have begun using it."

Common error

Ensure the subject of "have begun using" is clear and specific. Instead of "Companies have begun using it", specify what 'it' refers to: "Companies have begun using cloud-based storage solutions."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "have begun using" functions as a verb phrase, specifically in the present perfect tense. It indicates that an action of starting to use something has occurred at an unspecified time in the past and is relevant to the present. Ludwig AI confirms this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Science

22%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "have begun using" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase that indicates the start of utilizing something. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage. It is most frequently found in News & Media, and Science contexts, reflecting its widespread applicability. When using this phrase, ensure the subject is clear and avoid ambiguity. Alternatives include "have started using" and "have commenced using", offering varying degrees of formality. By following these guidelines, writers can effectively incorporate "have begun using" in their communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have started using

Replaces "begun" with "started", offering a more informal tone while retaining the same core meaning.

have commenced using

Substitutes "begun" with "commenced", resulting in a more formal and official-sounding alternative.

have initiated the use of

Replaces "begun using" with a more descriptive and elaborate phrase, emphasizing the act of initiating something.

have started to employ

Uses "employ" instead of "use", suggesting a more deliberate and purposeful application of something.

have adopted the practice of using

Emphasizes the adoption of a new practice or habit, rather than a simple act of using.

are now using

Focuses on the present state of usage, omitting the sense of initiation implied by "have begun".

have transitioned to using

Highlights a shift from a previous method to a new one.

are increasingly using

Suggests a growing trend in the use of something, rather than a specific starting point.

are starting to make use of

This is a more verbose alternative to "have begun using", which emphasizes the act of exploiting something.

have turned to using

Implies that using something is a solution to a need.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "have begun using" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases such as "have commenced using" or "have initiated the use of".

What are some common synonyms for "have begun using"?

Common synonyms include "have started using", "are now using", or "are increasingly using", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "has begun using" instead of "have begun using"?

Yes, use "has begun using" with singular subjects (e.g., "He has begun using") and "have begun using" with plural subjects (e.g., "They have begun using").

How can I emphasize a shift or change when using "have begun using"?

To emphasize a shift, you can use phrases like "have transitioned to using" or "have turned to using", which highlight the move from a previous state to the current one.