how it can be used

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of the sentence "how it can be used" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is typically used to ask about the purpose of something and can be used in any type of writing. For example: "Can you explain how the new software can be used?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Commenters on Hacker News point to its capabilities and how it can be used to replace Heroku.

TechCrunch

Let us now explain what an -th residue is and how it can be used to encrypt data.

EURASIP Journal on Information Security

Now it's time to look at how it can be used in education.

The Guardian

I love the iPad and how it can be used to support teaching and learning.

The Guardian

Why it's cool, and hopefully gives some good intuition into how it can be used.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Spend more time focusing on what the result means, and how it can be used.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

We need to understand DNA testing and how it can be used to resolve genealogical questions.

The New York Times

Researchers also have studied the sources of power and how it can be used and resisted.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But it is also important to focus on what legislation does allow, and how it can be used flexibly.

The Guardian

After a user types the e-mail message, he sets the rules for how it can be used.

The New York Times

Choose one technology to investigate how and why it was first developed, and how it can be used for spying.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing the application of a concept or technology, be specific about "how it can be used" by providing concrete examples or scenarios to illustrate its practical benefits.

Common error

Don't just state that something "can be used"; instead, elaborate on the specific ways in which it provides value or solves a problem. Provide context and details.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "how it can be used" functions as a relative clause, often introducing a description or explanation of the possible applications, purposes, or functionalities of a subject. This is supported by Ludwig, which presents examples from various sources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Academia

30%

Science

30%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "how it can be used" is a versatile relative clause used to explore the functionality, application, or utility of something. As highlighted by Ludwig, it appears frequently across diverse fields such as news, academia, and science, indicating its broad applicability. The phrase is grammatically correct and serves primarily to inquire about or explain the practical uses of a subject. To enhance clarity in writing, it's recommended to provide specific examples and avoid vague generalizations when discussing "how it can be used". Ludwig AI confirms the correctness and usability of this phrase in various contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

how to utilize it

Replaces "be used" with the more formal "utilize it".

how it is applicable

Focuses on applicability rather than the general concept of use.

in what way it is employed

Uses a more formal and passive voice.

the means by which it's applied

Emphasizes the method of application.

how it functions in practice

Highlights practical functionality.

how it's put to use

More informal phrasing focusing on practical implementation.

the process of its utilization

Focuses on the utilization process rather than the result.

the manner of its application

Emphasizes the method or way it's applied.

what purpose it serves

Shifts the focus to the purpose rather than the method.

what its function is

Directly asks about the function.

FAQs

How can I use "how it can be used" in a sentence?

You can use "how it can be used" to inquire about the possible applications or functions of something. For example, "The article explains "how it can be used" in education".

What is a more formal way to say "how it can be used"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "the manner of its application" or "the process of its utilization". These alternatives emphasize a more structured and professional approach to describing "how it can be used".

Which is correct, "how it can be used" or "how it could be used"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but they convey slightly different meanings. "How it can be used" suggests a present or general possibility, while "how it could be used" implies a hypothetical or potential application.

What's the difference between "how it can be used" and "how to use it"?

"How it can be used" generally discusses potential applications or functions, while "how to use it" provides direct instructions or a guide on using something. The former is more descriptive, and the latter is more prescriptive.