is only useful

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is only useful" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something has limited utility or effectiveness in a specific context. Example: "This tool is only useful for basic tasks and may not meet advanced requirements."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"But like any 'tool,' an increased payout is only useful when used in the right way," the report cautions.

The New York Times

One Clintonologist argues that she has "a high usefulness quotient": it is only useful people she cosies up to.

The Economist

But using genetically modified viruses to deliver VEGF is only useful for medical operations.

The Guardian

A weapon is only useful if you're willing and able to use it when you're attacked.

Huffington Post

Therefore, this behaviour is only useful if the circuit is intended for "single use".

BMC Systems Biology

It's a service that is only useful when a lot of people around you are using it.

TechCrunch

This is only useful for pretending to a router that you are using a different computer.

WikiHow

Inversion therapy is rarely used to treat chronic pain, so it is only useful for mild relief.

WikiHow

Sometimes labelling is only useful, like with OCD.

The Guardian - Books

But solar power is only useful during daylight hours.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

This is only useful in combination with the -S option.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is only useful", clearly specify the conditions or context where its utility applies. This provides clarity and avoids overstating its general applicability.

Common error

Avoid implying that something is broadly effective when it's "only useful" in specific situations. Be precise about when and how it provides value.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is only useful" primarily functions as a predicate adjective, modifying a subject by describing a condition or limitation on its usefulness. Ludwig shows that this construction commonly appears in statements defining the scope or applicability of various subjects.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is only useful" is a common and grammatically sound way to express that something's utility is limited to specific conditions. Ludwig's analysis reveals it's frequently found in news, scientific, and academic contexts. To ensure clarity, specify the exact circumstances where the subject holds value, avoiding overgeneralizations. When you want to convey a higher, less conditioned utility, consider alternatives. While the phrase is correct, carefully consider if it adequately captures the degree of the subject's benefits in various situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is of limited use

Highlights the restricted applicability of something, focusing on the constraints rather than the potential benefits.

has limited application

Focuses on the restricted scope of practical use or implementation, making it clear that something cannot be widely applied.

is only relevant when

Highlights relevance as the key factor, stressing that the subject is only important or applicable under certain conditions.

is merely helpful

Emphasizes a weaker degree of usefulness compared to the original phrase, suggesting something that provides some assistance but is not essential.

is suitable only for

Indicates that something is appropriate or fitting for a narrow range of purposes or situations, limiting its overall usability.

is restricted to certain cases

Highlights that the utility is confined to particular instances, underlining that it's not a general solution.

is valuable in specific contexts

Focuses on the worth or importance of something but confines it to particular situations or environments.

is conditionally effective

Stresses the dependence of effectiveness on specific preconditions, making it clear that usefulness is not guaranteed.

is helpful in a limited way

Directly points out the restricted nature of assistance provided, underscoring that it doesn't offer comprehensive solutions.

is beneficial under certain circumstances

Highlights the positive aspects but emphasizes that benefits are not universal and depend on particular situations.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "is only useful" to emphasize a stronger benefit?

To suggest a greater degree of benefit, consider alternatives like "is highly effective", "is essential", or "is crucial", depending on the context.

What are some situations where "is only useful" is appropriate?

This phrase is fitting when describing tools, techniques, or information that have value under specific circumstances but are not universally applicable. For instance, "This software is only useful for processing large datasets."

How does "is only useful" differ from "is generally useful"?

"Is only useful" indicates a conditional or limited benefit, while "is generally useful" suggests broad applicability across various scenarios. The former implies limitations; the latter, widespread utility.

When should I avoid using "is only useful"?

Avoid using this phrase when the subject in question has broad or significant benefits. In such cases, opt for stronger terms like "is beneficial", "is valuable", or "is important" to accurately reflect its utility.