is used to

USAGE SUMMARY

"is used to" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that is regularly done or experienced. For example, "The computer is used to generate reports for the monthly meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He is used to this.

The Economist

Diplo is used to the sentiment.

The New York Times - Arts

He is used to nuanced argument.

The Economist

It is used to receiving North Koreans.

The Economist

Lillibridge is used to a low profile.

The New York Times - Sports

Wacha, 22, is used to such drama.

The New York Times - Sports

It is used to treat erectile dysfunction.

Independent

Daniel Hernández-Salazar Hernández-Salazarg.

The New York Times

It is used to decolourize glass.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Polysilicon is used to make solar panels.

The New York Times

Bryant is used to being that guy.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is used to", ensure clarity by specifying what performs the action and what the action achieves. For example, "This tool is used to analyze data efficiently."

Common error

Ensure that the subject of the sentence is clearly defined to avoid confusion about what "is used to" perform the action. For example, avoid vague sentences like "It is used to...", instead specify the subject: "The software is used to...".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is used to" functions as a passive construction indicating the purpose or function of something. Ludwig examples show its use across diverse contexts to specify how something is employed. According to Ludwig AI, this is a correct phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Wiki

22%

Encyclopedias

11%

Less common in

Science

9%

Formal & Business

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "is used to" is a versatile and correct phrase used to indicate the purpose or function of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and widely applicable. The examples showcase its prevalence across various domains, including news, encyclopedias, and wikis, making it a staple in both formal and informal communication. Remembering to maintain clarity and avoid ambiguity can further enhance its effectiveness in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

serves to

Focuses on the function or purpose of something.

functions as

Highlights the role or operation of something in a system.

is employed for

Emphasizes the practical application of something.

is designed for

Indicates the intended purpose or application.

is intended to

Highlights the planned or expected outcome.

is meant to

Expresses the purpose or reason for something's existence.

is utilized for

Similar to "is employed for" but slightly more formal.

is applied to

Focuses on the act of putting something to use.

is implemented for

Highlights the execution or carrying out of a task.

aids in

Indicates assistance or support in achieving a particular outcome.

FAQs

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

Use "is used to" to describe the purpose or function of something. For example, "This software is used to analyze data" or "This technique is used to improve efficiency".

What are some alternatives to "is used to"?

You can use alternatives like "serves to", "functions as", or "is employed for", depending on the context.

What is the difference between "is used to" and "used to"?

"Is used to" describes the purpose or function of something, whereas "used to" describes a past habit or state. For example, "This machine is used to process data" (purpose) vs. "I used to live in New York" (past habit).

Is it correct to say "is being used to" instead of "is used to"?

Yes, "is being used to" is also correct, but it implies that the action is currently happening or is temporary. "Is used to" is more general and describes a standard purpose or function. For example, "This room is being used to host the conference today" vs. "This room is used to host conferences regularly".