marks of use

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "marks of use" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe signs or indications that something has been used or handled, often referring to wear and tear on an object. Example: "The antique chair had several marks of use, indicating its long history and the many people who had sat in it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

It has the marks of use that are a sign of life.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

The homes here bear what the cultural critic Karal Ann Marling called 'the marks of hard use'".

Wikipedia

Those receiving the intervention gave it high marks for ease of use, likability, and respectfulness.

Alcohol research : current reviews

The room is marked by years of use.

BMJ Open

The standard environment is in a basement, has artificial lighting and is marked by years of use; that is, resembling many clinical environments.

BMJ Open

It had previously refused the applications of 39 marks for using the word "fuck" and five marks for using the word "fucking".

Wikipedia

Along with the scuff marks of time and use, many of the blank-slate covers carry words and drawings added by past owners.

The New York Times - Arts

The Database holds information only on the level of education completed and not on graduation, marks or use of special education services.

British Journal of Cancer

:(5) The fame of the prior mark (sales, advertising, length of use).

Wikipedia

Vic Marks The use of two balls, which perversely makes life more difficult for the bowlers – at the end of the innings.

The Guardian - Sport

It also marks the use of literary genre elements in the "real" world, a formula that would later be refined by Quentin Tarantino.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing antiques or vintage items, using the phrase "marks of use" can add authenticity and charm to your description.

Common error

While "marks of use" is appropriate in many contexts, avoid overuse, especially when simpler terms like "wear" or "damage" are more direct and effective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "marks of use" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject complement or object to describe visible signs of previous handling or wear on an item. Ludwig AI states the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "marks of use" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe visible signs of previous handling or wear on an item. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It typically conveys information about an object's history and condition, implying age or previous ownership. The phrase is most frequently found in news, media, and encyclopedic contexts, maintaining a neutral register suitable for both casual and professional descriptions. Alternatives include "signs of wear and tear" and "indications of usage".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Signs of wear and tear

Focuses specifically on damage resulting from use.

Indications of usage

More formal and general, referring to any sign of something being used.

Traces of use

Implies subtle or less obvious evidence of use.

Evidence of wear

Highlights the deterioration caused by use.

Patina of age

Refers to a desirable appearance of age and use, often in antiques.

Scars of use

Emphasizes damage or imperfections resulting from use.

Hallmarks of usage

Highlights distinctive characteristics resulting from use.

Effects of time

Broader term encompassing all changes due to aging and use.

Signs of handling

Focuses specifically on evidence of being touched or manipulated.

Wear patterns

Specifically refers to predictable patterns of damage from repeated use.

FAQs

How can I describe something that shows signs of being used?

You can use phrases like "signs of wear and tear", "indications of usage", or "traces of use" depending on the context.

What is a more formal way to say "marks of use"?

A more formal alternative is "indications of usage", which sounds more professional and less casual.

Is it correct to say "mark of use" instead of "marks of use"?

While grammatically possible, "mark of use" is less common. "Marks of use" is typically used to describe multiple signs of wear, whereas "mark of use" might refer to a single, specific instance.

What's the difference between "marks of use" and "signs of wear"?

"Marks of use" is a more general term referring to any indication of something being used. "Signs of wear" specifically refers to damage or deterioration resulting from use.