incorrectly used

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "incorrectly used" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that has been applied or utilized in a wrong or improper manner. Example: "The term 'literally' is often incorrectly used in casual conversation to mean 'figuratively.'"

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"They were incorrectly used, and in my opinion, abused" during the housing boom.

The Washington Post

Navient incorrectly used a different code indicating that the loan had defaulted, according to the lawsuits.

The New York Times

In addition, an earlier version of this article incorrectly used the term non-linear instead of non-monotonic.

Yale University

For instance, he said, one problem incorrectly used parentheses instead of braces to enclose a set of numbers.

The New York Times

Although it is the banner of the sovereign, it is widely but incorrectly used today as the national symbol.

Britannica

However, in one patient this came at the cost of inappropriate over-generalisations, in which trained words were incorrectly used to name semantically or visually similar objects.

Neuropsychologia

Newman's maps are quite distinct, which makes it easier to unearth his research as the original source of the map that is incorrectly used in the Facebook image.

The Washington Post

The term pedal tone, which properly refers to the fundamental note in brass instruments, is sometimes incorrectly used for pedal point.

Britannica

In the version of this article initially published, the word Tip60 was incorrectly used instead of Pirh2 in the legend for Fig. 2b.

Nature

Actually, what Mr. Romney said was "hoot-spa," with "hoot" correctly rhyming with "foot," but with a hard H incorrectly used at the start.

The New York Times

Essay includes errors that skillful writers fluent in Standard Written English would not make; for example, lack of subject-verb agreement, or lack of correct verb tense markers, or incorrect prepositions, or incorrectly used set-phrases.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing errors, use "incorrectly used" to clearly state that something was applied or utilized in a wrong or improper manner. This ensures clarity and avoids ambiguity in your writing.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "incorrectly used" always implies a simple mistake. Sometimes, it indicates a deliberate misuse or misunderstanding of a concept or tool. Consider the context to determine the degree of intent behind the incorrect usage.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "incorrectly used" functions as an adverbial modifier combined with a passive verb. It describes the manner in which something has been used, indicating that the usage was not correct. As Ludwig AI shows, it is employed across various contexts to denote errors in application or implementation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

37%

News & Media

29%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

9%

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "incorrectly used" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe something that has been applied or utilized in a wrong or improper manner. Ludwig AI highlights its prevalent use across diverse contexts, particularly in science, news media, and academic writing. Alternatives such as "improperly applied" or "wrongly employed" can be used depending on the specific nuance desired. While generally neutral to formal, context dictates its register, and awareness of potential for overgeneralization ensures accurate and effective communication. By considering these factors, writers can use "incorrectly used" with clarity and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

improperly applied

This alternative focuses on the application aspect, implying a misuse in how something was applied.

wrongly employed

This suggests that something was used in an incorrect or inappropriate manner.

erroneously utilized

Highlights the mistake or error in the way something was used.

inappropriately implemented

Focuses on the implementation aspect, emphasizing that the action was not suitable for the context.

mistakenly adopted

Highlights the action of adopting something based on a mistake or misunderstanding.

inaccurately deployed

Emphasizes the lack of accuracy in the manner something was deployed or used.

unsuitably administered

Suggests that something was managed or given in an inappropriate way.

defectively handled

Highlights flaws or defects in the way something was managed or used.

abusively exercised

Implies that something was used in a way that is excessive or harmful.

ineptly executed

Emphasizes the lack of skill or competence in the way something was carried out or used.

FAQs

How can I use "incorrectly used" in a sentence?

You can use "incorrectly used" to describe how something was applied in a wrong or improper manner. For example, "The term 'literally' is often "incorrectly used" in casual conversation to mean 'figuratively'.

What are some alternatives to "incorrectly used"?

Alternatives include "improperly applied", "wrongly employed", or "erroneously utilized" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "incorrectly used" or "improperly used"?

Both "incorrectly used" and "improperly used" are correct, but they carry slightly different connotations. "Incorrectly used" suggests a factual error, while "improperly used" implies a breach of protocol or etiquette. In many cases, they are interchangeable.

What's the difference between "incorrectly used" and "misused"?

"Incorrectly used" typically refers to a factual or technical error in application. "Misused" often implies a deliberate or negligent use that is inappropriate or harmful. For example, "The tool was "incorrectly used" due to a misunderstanding of the instructions," versus "The tool was "misused" to damage property".