it is in use

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is in use" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is currently being utilized or actively employed. Example: "The software is quite effective, and it is in use by several companies in the industry."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

Reflexive monitoring: the informal and formal appraisal of a new practice once it is in use, in order to assess its advantages and disadvantages and which develops users' comprehension of the effects of a practice.

BMC Medical Research Methodology

It is in use every day.

The New Yorker

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

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

The New York Times - Travel

The PocketVIK includes a collapsible cradle that props up the screen while it is in use.

The New York Times - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

The model presented evaluates alternative connectors by including the three main concerns: (1) making product disassembly friendly; (2) making product assembly efficient; and (3) increasing the product performance when it is in-use.

Computers & Industrial Engineering

It's in use for that reason in nine states.

The New York Times

It has now been vacant for almost as long as it was in use.

The Guardian

Neither is the basic detection method new: it was in use 20 years ago.

The Guardian

It was in use to gather aid for Italian earthquake victims as the disaster struck.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the status of equipment or software, use "it is in use" to clearly indicate that it is currently active and running. This helps avoid ambiguity about whether something is simply available or actually being utilized.

Common error

Avoid using redundant phrases such as "currently it is in use". The phrase "it is in use" already implies the current state, so adding "currently" is unnecessary and can make your writing sound less concise.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is in use" primarily functions as a descriptive statement. It indicates the current status of something, specifying that it is presently being utilized or actively employed. Ludwig shows examples where this phrase is used to describe equipment, software, or even physical spaces.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

32%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it is in use" is a common and grammatically sound way to indicate that something is currently being utilized. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its frequent appearance across diverse contexts, including news media, scientific publications, and general informational articles. While primarily descriptive, the phrase serves to inform about the active state of an object or system, making it a versatile and valuable addition to one's vocabulary. Remember to avoid redundancies like "currently it is in use" for clearer writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is being used

Focuses on the action of using rather than the state of being in use.

it is operational

Implies that something is functioning and ready for use.

it is functional

Highlights the working condition and usability.

it is active

Indicates that something is currently running or engaged.

it is employed

More formal way of saying it is being used, emphasizing purpose.

it is running

Suggests that a process or machine is currently working.

it is implemented

Focuses on the fact that something has been put into effect and is now in practice.

it is online

Specific to systems or services that are connected and available.

it is available

Suggests that something is ready and accessible for use.

it is engaged

Indicates that something is actively involved or connected.

FAQs

What does "it is in use" mean?

The phrase "it is in use" means that something is currently being utilized or actively employed for its intended purpose.

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

You can use "it is in use" to describe the current state of an object or system. For example, "The conference room "it is in use", so we'll have to meet somewhere else."

What are some alternatives to "it is in use"?

Alternatives include "it is being used", "it is operational", or "it is functional". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "it is currently in use"?

While understandable, adding "currently" to "it is in use" is often redundant. The phrase already implies the present state, so ""it is in use"" is usually sufficient.