have started using

USAGE SUMMARY

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

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But police in Carroll County, where Aceves lived, have started using the tactic on their own.

Huffington Post

Now I have started using my pills.

The Guardian

Washington and Tehran have started using the same language.

The New Yorker

Chefs, including Tom Valenti of Ouest, have started using it.

The New York Times - Food

They have started using bigger bombs from planes.

The Guardian

Some have started using e-mail to communicate with patients; others are experimenting with group visits.

The New York Times - Health

Commentators have started using bluntly anti-Jewish language in articles about Israel.

The New York Times

This year has been very different, because two other birds have started using his tune.

The Guardian - Film

Some jails and schools have started using it to keep flu and infections at bay.

The New York Times

If he had a gun, he said, he would have started using it already.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Some psychiatrists have started using the term Münchausen by internet (MBI) to describe this behaviour.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a shift in strategy or methodology, use "have started using" to clearly indicate the commencement of a new practice.

Common error

Ensure the context clarifies when the usage began to avoid confusion. Instead of just saying "They have started using the software", specify the timeframe: "They have started using the software this quarter."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "have started using" functions as a verb phrase indicating the initiation of an action or process. It typically connects a subject with a new tool, method, or practice they've recently adopted. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is grammatically sound and widely applicable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Academia

31%

Science

27%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "have started using" is a versatile and grammatically correct verb phrase used to describe the commencement of a new action or the adoption of a new tool or method. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. It is particularly common in news, academic, and scientific contexts, as shown by Ludwig's examples. When using this phrase, ensure clarity regarding the timeframe and context to avoid ambiguity. Consider using synonyms like "have begun utilizing" or "recently adopted" for stylistic variation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have begun utilizing

Replaces "started using" with a more formal synonym, "utilizing".

have commenced employing

Substitutes "started using" with "commenced employing", adding a slightly more formal and official tone.

have started implementing

Emphasizes the implementation or putting into practice of something.

have recently adopted

Focuses on the recent adoption of something, implying a newer practice.

have started relying on

Indicates a new dependence or reliance on something for a particular purpose.

have initiated application of

Uses a more technical and formal phrasing, suitable for scientific or procedural contexts.

have started working with

Suggests beginning to collaborate or operate with something, often a tool or method.

have transitioned to using

Highlights a change or shift towards using something different.

began to operate with

Uses 'operate with' instead of 'using', indicating actively working with something.

have turned to

This shows that someone has changed their ways and now uses something.

FAQs

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

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "have begun utilizing" or "have commenced employing" depending on the context.

What's a more concise alternative to "have started using"?

Depending on the context, you might use "recently adopted" or "now using" for brevity.

In what situations is it best to use "have started using"?

This phrase is ideal for indicating the recent implementation of a new tool, method, or technology. It's useful when emphasizing the beginning of a new practice.

Is "have started using" grammatically correct?

Yes, "have started using" is grammatically correct. It follows the present perfect tense structure, indicating an action that began in the past and continues to have relevance in the present.