it is used on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is used on" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe the application or context in which something is utilized. Example: "This software is widely recognized for its versatility; it is used on various platforms, including Windows and macOS."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

It is used on its bestselling Dairy Milk bars and other sweets.

The Guardian - Business

Writes one user in his review: "I hate it !!!!!!!!! Say one who it is used on," laments the teen.

TechCrunch

This is a surprising conclusion given Zack points out Apple claims its new iPhones have "The most durable smartphone glass ever" (and it is used on the front and back of the 2018 models) but it was reached after he ran through several common drop scenarios.

Forbes

It is used on a white body.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It is used on both domestic and international flights.

The New York Times

It is used on professional baseball diamonds, but rarely on city ball fields.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

The choke took on racial ramifications because it was used on more black suspects than on white ones.

The New York Times - Books

It's used on around 400,000 websites - and it is run by one person, Evan Williams.

The Guardian - Tech

Its antibacterial properties are employed in many hospitals - where it's used on surfaces to reduce the risk of infections.

BBC

It was used on Yves's ready-to-wear line and the Rive Gauche shop front.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It was used on the Web site of "The Tyra Banks Show".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it is used on", ensure that the subject it refers to is clear to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of "It is used on cars", specify "This type of paint is used on cars."

Common error

Avoid using "it is used on" without a clear antecedent for "it". Unclear pronoun references can confuse readers. For instance, instead of saying "It is used on surfaces", specify "This cleaning product is used on surfaces."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is used on" primarily functions as a passive construction indicating where or what something is applied to. As Ludwig AI explains, it highlights the surface or object receiving the action. This is evident in examples like "It is used on professional baseball diamonds" or "It is used on the Apple Watch."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

26%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is used on" is a common and grammatically sound passive construction used to describe the application or context in which something is utilized. As Ludwig AI underlines, it is mostly frequent in News & Media and Science contexts. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity by explicitly stating the subject it refers to, and avoid vague pronoun references for a more compelling writing. Some useful and meaning-preserving alternatives are "it is applied to", "it is implemented on", and "it is employed on".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it's applied to

Focuses on the application aspect, implying a direct action of applying something to a surface or object.

it is implemented on

Emphasizes the implementation aspect, suggesting that something is put into effect or practice on a particular system or platform.

it is employed on

Highlights the utilization aspect, indicating that something is put to use for a specific purpose on a particular subject.

it is placed on

Focuses on the physical act of placing something onto another surface.

it is found on

Indicates the location or existence of something on a surface or object.

it is installed on

Specifically refers to installing software or equipment onto a system or device.

it is spread over

Implies a covering or distribution across a surface.

it is layered onto

Suggests a process of applying something in layers.

it is superimposed on

Describes placing something over or above something else, often in a visual context.

it is affixed to

Emphasizes the act of attaching or fastening something to a surface.

FAQs

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

For a more formal tone, you could use phrases like "it is applied to", "it is implemented on", or "it is employed on". The choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

What is the difference between "it is used on" and "it is used in"?

"It is used on" typically refers to a surface or object onto which something is applied, while "it is used in" implies that something is an ingredient, component, or part of a process or system. For example, "This paint is used on walls", versus "This ingredient is used in the recipe".

Can I use "it is used on" to describe abstract concepts?

While "it is used on" is primarily used for physical objects, it can be extended to abstract concepts if you are referring to something being applied or imposed upon them. However, be mindful of clarity and consider more suitable alternatives like "it is applied to" or "it is employed in" for abstract contexts.

Is "it is used on" always passive voice?

Yes, "it is used on" is in the passive voice. The active voice equivalent would be something like "Someone uses it on..." or "They use it on...". Using the active voice can sometimes make your writing more direct and concise.