is in use

USAGE SUMMARY

'is in use' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to refer to something that is currently being used or operated. For example, "This machine is in use, so it cannot be moved right now."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Every speck is in use.

The Economist

It is in use every day.

The New Yorker

So far only one is in use.

The Guardian - Travel

It is in use at the moment.

The New Yorker

"When it is in use it's open to the public".

The New York Times

The concept, called "permission marketing," is in use today.

The New York Times - Tech

Data is only collected when the app is in use.

The Guardian - Tech

The filter is in use for metal deposition.

Surface and Coatings Technology

Put up signs notifying people that CCTV is in use and who operates it.

The Guardian - Opinion

Metal safety rails ring the deck when it is in use.

The New York Times - Travel

The microwave oven can severely disrupt the signal, but only while the oven is in use.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is in use" to clearly indicate that something is currently being utilized, avoiding ambiguity about its status.

Common error

Avoid using "is in use" when a more direct active voice construction would be clearer. For instance, instead of "The system is in use by the administrator", consider "The administrator is using the system".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is in use" functions as a predicate adjective, describing the state of a noun as currently being utilized or operated. Ludwig examples show its use across diverse contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

18%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is in use" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to indicate that something is currently being utilized. With a neutral register, it fits seamlessly in various contexts, from news reports to academic papers. Ludwig's examples and Ludwig AI's validation underscore its versatility and correctness. Consider exploring synonyms like "is being utilized" or "is currently operating" for nuanced communication. Remember to avoid passive voice overuse for clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is being utilized

Focuses on the continuous process of use, emphasizing the action over the state.

is currently operating

Highlights the active functioning of something at the present time.

is presently functional

Emphasizes the current working condition or operability.

is actively employed

Stresses that something is being put to work or service.

is under operation

Similar to 'is operating' but may imply a more complex or controlled process.

is being leveraged

Suggests the use is strategic or advantageous.

is now running

Implies a continuous process or execution.

is at work

A simpler, more informal way to indicate something is being used.

is engaged

Highlights that something is actively involved or connected in a process.

is online

Specifically refers to a system or service being active and accessible.

FAQs

How can I use "is in use" in a sentence?

You can use "is in use" to indicate that something is currently being utilized. For example, "The conference room is in use, please wait until it's free".

What's a more formal alternative to "is in use"?

More formal alternatives include "is being utilized" or "is currently operating", depending on the context.

Which is correct, "is in use" or "is being used"?

Both "is in use" and "is being used" are grammatically correct, but "is in use" often implies a state of current operation, while "is being used" emphasizes the action. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What can I say instead of "is in use" when referring to software?

When referring to software, you might say "is running", "is active", or "is operational", depending on the specific context.