is still usable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is still usable" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when referring to a thing or item that can still be employed or put to use, despite being somewhat dated or outdated. For example: "This old laptop may be a few years old, but it's still usable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

The predecessor phrase, critical mass, though dated, is still usable.

The New York Times - Magazine

With lettuce, take off a couple of leaves, you can do some cutting and the rest of it is still usable".

The New York Times

A third survey choice garnered 36 percent: "Scratch paper is still usable (for example, the paper you bring to do extra work on a test); scrap paper is paper that isn't needed anymore and can be thrown away".

The New York Times - Magazine

It was posted on the 38 Degrees campaign website by Lizzie Swarf who urged: "Rather than wasting millions of pounds worth of food that is still usable, make supermarkets donate their leftover products that are still safe to eat, to food banks".

Independent

If the degree of contamination is mild, the signal is still usable and can be put into digital processing after sampling.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Some additional screen protection would have been a great idea on Newer Technology's part, but overall the iPod is still usable and protected.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Sameh owned a pair of binoculars, and though one eyepiece was broken they were still usable.

The New York Times - Magazine

He could sell his building materials to the contractor, at least what was still usable.

The New York Times

If you have furniture or large items that are still usable, donating them to charity makes sense.

The Guardian - Money

He also said many buildings had been demolished while they were still usable, adding: "That is a disaster for both the environment and resources".

The Guardian

A foil protector swings down for use and although this is highly affordable, it's still usable both wet and dry and is fully washable.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the condition of an item, ensure "is still usable" is followed by a qualifier that clarifies the extent of its usability (e.g., "is still usable, but only for basic tasks").

Common error

Avoid using "is still usable" when the item's condition severely limits its function. Be honest about its limitations to manage expectations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is still usable" functions as an adjective phrase that describes the state or condition of a noun. As Ludwig AI suggests, this expression indicates that something remains in a condition that allows it to be used, even if it isn't in perfect condition.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Wiki

27%

Science

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is still usable" serves to express that an item retains functionality despite potential drawbacks like age or wear. Ludwig AI confirms the expression is grammatically sound and commonly used across diverse contexts, from news reports and how-to guides to scientific literature. The phrase’s neutral tone makes it appropriate for a wide range of communication scenarios. Keep in mind that providing context about the item's condition helps manage user expectations. As a side note, the spelling "usable" is much more frequent than "useable", but both are acceptable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

remains functional

Focuses more on the operational aspect.

is still viable

Implies ongoing effectiveness or success.

is still in working order

Highlights the operational state.

is still serviceable

Suggests adequate condition for use.

remains effective

Emphasizes continued efficacy or impact.

is still good to use

A more informal way of expressing usability.

is still valid

Indicates that something is still officially accepted or recognized.

is not obsolete yet

Focuses on the opposite, highlighting the lack of obsolescence.

can still be utilized

Highlights the possibility of usage.

retains its utility

Emphasizes the preservation of usefulness.

FAQs

What does "is still usable" mean?

The phrase "is still usable" indicates that something, despite potential age, wear, or other limitations, retains enough functionality to be employed for its intended purpose or a similar one.

Which is correct, "is still usable" or "is still useable"?

"Is still usable" is the standard spelling. "Is still useable" is less common but not incorrect.

What can I say instead of "is still usable"?

You can use alternatives like "remains functional", "is still viable", or "is still serviceable" depending on the context.

How to use "is still usable" in a sentence?

You can say, "Even though the car is old, it "is still usable" for short trips".