it is using

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is using" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing an ongoing action or process that involves the use of something. Example: "The software is running smoothly because it is using the latest algorithms for data processing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

And it is using its relationships with cable networks to get programming for it.

The New York Times

Acma has said it is using its discretionary powers to launch the investigation.

The Guardian

But to share data with its big systems, it is using WebSphere, I.B.M.'s Web services middleware software.

The New York Times

In most cases, WCSN adds its announcers, but in Doha, it is using IMG's.

The New York Times - Sports

Facebook says it is using only information that its members choose to share.

The New York Times - Tech

There is a newly industrialised country on our doorstep and it is using a colony to finance its growth.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is using a similar rhetoric today in its own oil-rich eastern province.

The Guardian - Opinion

The government must show that it is using the "least restrictive means" to achieve its goal.

The New York Times

And it is using this legislation, among others, to pay its debt.

The Guardian

It is using them.

The Guardian

In promotions it is using athletes.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, ensure the subject clearly identifies what is doing the "using", and the object specifies what is being "used". This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "it is using" when the referent of "it" is unclear or ambiguous. Always ensure the reader knows exactly what "it" refers to in the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is using" functions as a present continuous verb phrase, indicating an action that is currently in progress. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Science

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it is using" is a versatile and grammatically correct way to describe ongoing actions where something is being employed. Ludwig's analysis confirms its broad applicability, particularly in news and media contexts. While alternatives like "it employs" or "it utilizes" exist for more formal settings, "it is using" serves as a reliable and clear choice for most situations. Ensure clarity by specifying what "it" refers to and what is being used to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it employs

Replaces "using" with a more formal synonym.

it utilizes

Similar to 'employs', offering a slightly more technical tone.

it's leveraging

Implies using something to maximum advantage.

it makes use of

A more verbose way of saying 'it uses'.

it is harnessing

Suggests gathering and controlling something for use.

it capitalizes on

Focuses on exploiting an opportunity or resource.

it draws on

Implies taking something from a source.

it avails itself of

A highly formal way of saying it takes advantage of something.

it operates with

Suggests using something as part of a process or system.

it resorts to

Indicates using something as a last option or in desperation.

FAQs

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

Use "it is using" to describe a subject employing a tool, method, or resource. For example, "The company "it is using" AI to improve its services".

What are some alternatives to "it is using"?

Alternatives include "it employs", "it utilizes", or "it leverages", depending on the desired nuance.

Is "it is using" formal or informal?

"It is using" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, more formal alternatives exist, such as "it employs".

What's the difference between "it is using" and "it uses"?

"It is using" describes an ongoing or current action, while "it uses" describes a general or habitual action. For example, "The software "it is using" more memory now" versus "The software "it uses" a lot of memory".