is used

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is used" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe how something is utilized or applied in a particular context. Example: "In this experiment, the method is used to analyze the data collected from the samples."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A language is used.

The New York Times

No metal is used.

The New York Times

Nothing is used up.

The Economist

(No amplification is used).

The New York Times - Arts

"Like" is "used excessively".

The Guardian - Opinion

Now, none is used.

The New York Times

Perspective is used brilliantly.

The Guardian

What land is used?

The Guardian - Opinion

Where it is used?

The New York Times

But it is used rarely.

The Economist

But everything is used eventually.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, ensure the passive voice using "is used" is appropriate. Overuse can make writing sound vague or weaken the impact. Consider active voice alternatives for stronger statements.

Common error

Avoid using "is used" when the actor is clear and relevant. Instead of saying, "The software is used by the engineers", a stronger statement is: "The engineers use the software."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is used" functions as a passive verb construction, indicating that the subject receives the action rather than performing it. According to Ludwig AI, this construction is grammatically correct and widely applicable. Examples show its use in describing how something is utilized or applied.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Academia

15%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

7%

Science

15%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "is used" is a grammatically sound and very common passive verb phrase that indicates how something is employed or utilized. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and wide applicability across various contexts, from News & Media to Academic writing. While versatile, it's important to be mindful of the passive voice and consider active alternatives for stronger, more direct statements. Its neutral register makes it appropriate for diverse communication styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is employed

Replaces "used" with a more formal synonym.

is utilized

Similar to "is employed", offering a slightly more technical tone.

is applied

Focuses on the action of application rather than general use.

is implemented

Highlights the execution or putting into effect of something.

is consumed

Emphasizes the process of being used up or exhausted.

is operated

Suggests a functional process or mechanism is in action.

is administered

Implies a controlled or managed application.

is harnessed

Conveys the idea of capturing and using power or resources.

is exercised

Focuses on the active performance or application of a skill or right.

is adopted

Highlights the act of choosing and putting something into practice.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "is used" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "is employed", "is utilized", or "is implemented", depending on the context.

What's the difference between "is used" and "was used"?

"Is used" indicates present or ongoing usage, while "was used" indicates past usage. For example, "This tool is used daily" versus "This tool was used yesterday".

When should I use the active voice instead of "is used"?

Use the active voice when you want to emphasize the actor performing the action. For instance, instead of "The data is used by the analyst", write "The analyst uses the data".

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "is used"?

While grammatically possible, starting a sentence with "is used" is often stylistically weak. It's generally better to rephrase for clarity and impact. Example: Instead of saying "Is used for...," try "It is employed for..." or "It serves to...".