must be used

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "must be used" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is required or necessary in a particular context or situation. Example: "For this experiment, safety goggles must be used at all times to protect your eyes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Force must be used.

The New York Times

Laws against bribery must be used carefully.

The New York Times

It must be used while still warm.

The New York Times

Such creations must be used with care.

The New Yorker

But they must be used properly.

The New York Times

I believe that things must be used.

The New Yorker

By their nature, targeted exploits must be used selectively.

The Guardian - Opinion

But in art coincidence must be used sparingly.

The New York Times

But you must be used to the frustration by now.

The Guardian - Opinion

KeySpan maintains that this method must be used.

The New York Times

But then, Wahlberg must be used to tedious.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When providing instructions, use "must be used" to clearly indicate mandatory steps or equipment to ensure safety or proper procedure.

Common error

Avoid using "must be used" in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for softer alternatives like "should be used" or "needs to be used" to maintain a more relaxed tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "must be used" functions as a modal passive construction. It indicates that something is required or necessary to be utilized. Ludwig AI shows that this phrase is widely used across different contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

51%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "must be used" is a grammatically sound and very common expression that conveys a strong sense of obligation or necessity. As indicated by Ludwig, it's suitable for various contexts, from news and media to scientific and formal writing. While it's acceptable across these domains, it's advisable to consider the tone and choose alternative expressions like "should be utilized" in more informal settings. When clarity and authority are paramount, "must be used" remains a reliable choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

should be utilized

Suggests a recommendation rather than a strict requirement.

it is necessary to use

Restates the necessity with a different structure.

has to be employed

Emphasizes obligation or necessity.

needs to be applied

Highlights the practical application of something.

it is vital that you use

Emphasizes the importance and directly addresses the user.

is required to be implemented

Formal and emphasizes the implementation aspect.

is essential for application

Emphasizes the essential nature for a specific purpose.

is crucial for usage

Emphasizes that is fundamental for usage

it is obligatory to employ

Formal and stresses the obligatory aspect.

is mandatory to utilize

Very formal and highlights the mandatory nature.

FAQs

How can I use "must be used" in a sentence?

The phrase "must be used" indicates a requirement or necessity. For example: "Safety goggles "must be used" at all times in the laboratory."

What are some alternatives to "must be used"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "should be utilized", "has to be employed", or "is required to be implemented".

Is "must be used" formal or informal?

"Must be used" leans towards the formal side, indicating a strong obligation. In informal settings, consider using phrases like "needs to be used" or "should be used".

What's the difference between "must be used" and "should be used"?

"Must be used" indicates a strict requirement, whereas "should be used" suggests a recommendation or best practice. The choice depends on the level of necessity you want to convey.