in active service

USAGE SUMMARY

"in active service" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to refer to someone or something that is currently engaged or performing duties or tasks. Example: The soldiers were proud to be in active service, always ready to defend their country. Example: The car has been in active service for over ten years, but it still runs smoothly.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

The U.S. AirForce has 1200 DC-3s in active service.

The New Yorker

In contrast to Tirpitz's head, it seems her trotters remained in active service.

The Guardian

But when "Deployed" focuses on young parents in active service, it's heartwarming if not exactly revelatory.

The New York Times

Suicides among veterans and those in active service reached unacceptable levels long ago.

The New York Times

But he points out that few of those accused are still in active service.

The Economist

Looking at our surroundings (no longer in active service as a dressing room), an unplanned question popped out.

The Guardian

He served in the London Irish Rifles and took part in active service in the Western Desert and in Italy.

The Guardian

The bulk of the militia do not appear to be professional soldiers, or at least not in active service.

The Guardian

Banner's installation, Chinook, is a perverse homage to the American-made aircraft, which has been in active service since 1962.

The Guardian - Arts

Whether they were in active service or in a supporting role, we'd love to hear their stories.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Nevertheless, pre-dreadnoughts continued in active service and saw significant combat use even when obsolete.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in active service" when referring to personnel or equipment that are currently engaged in their designated duties. For instance, use it to describe soldiers, military vehicles, or even software applications.

Common error

Avoid using "in active service" when you mean 'inactive service' or 'reserve duty'. The former implies current engagement, while the latter indicates a state of readiness but not immediate deployment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in active service" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase modifying a noun, indicating the current operational status or engagement of that noun. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use across various contexts, such as military personnel, equipment, and even abstract systems.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Wiki

17%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Science

7%

Formal & Business

4%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in active service" is a grammatically sound and frequently used prepositional phrase that specifies the current operational status of personnel, equipment, or systems. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in various contexts. Predominantly found in news media and encyclopedic sources, it serves to clarify that something is presently engaged in its intended function, distinguishing it from being merely available or in reserve. While its register is mostly neutral, leaning slightly towards professional settings, it maintains broad applicability, making it a versatile choice for clear and precise communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on active duty

Specifically refers to military personnel performing their regular assigned tasks.

in commission

Often used in the context of ships or military equipment that are ready for service.

actively engaged

Highlights the active participation in a task or activity without specific reference to service.

serving currently

Highlights the aspect of serving in a specific role at the present time.

currently employed

Focuses on current employment status rather than a service context.

operational

Describes something that is ready for or currently in use.

in operation

Emphasizes that something is currently functioning or being used.

presently working

Focuses on the act of working at the current moment.

in force

Indicates that a rule, law, or agreement is currently valid and being used.

in effect

Similar to 'in force', implying that something is operational and producing results.

FAQs

How can I use "in active service" in a sentence?

You can use "in active service" to describe anything currently being used or performing its intended function. For example, "The warship remained "on active duty"" or "The program is "currently employed" for data analysis".

What's the difference between "in active service" and "on active duty"?

"In active service" is a broader term applicable to both people and equipment, whereas ""on active duty"" typically refers specifically to military personnel performing their assigned tasks.

What can I say instead of "in active service"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as ""currently employed"", "actively engaged", or "in operation".

Is it correct to say 'the equipment is in active service'?

Yes, it is correct. The phrase "in active service" can apply to equipment, personnel, or systems that are currently being used for their intended purpose. For instance, a specific aircraft or vehicle can be "operational", or more generally, in operation.