normally used

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "normally used" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is typically or commonly employed in a particular context or situation. Example: "In formal writing, contractions are not normally used."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

These are not the words normally used of contemporary art.

The Guardian - Arts

The camp is normally used to train students each fall.

The New York Times

What types of headings are normally used there?

The Guardian

For the natural sciences, taxonomic names are normally used.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"They are able to recruit muscles not normally used.

Independent

A fairly heavy pure rag paper is normally used.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But private grumbling and joking are not "dissidence," as the term is normally used.

The New York Times - Arts

First, its X-band radio, normally used to transmit to Earth, is broken.

The New York Times

Gil normally used five-day rotations, which is different from the five-man rotation.

The New York Times - Sports

Overexposure to copper sulphate, normally used in pesticide products, can cause nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain.

The Guardian

This expends and diverts vast amounts of energy normally used to maintain the immune system.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "normally used" to describe practices, tools, or methods that are standard or typical within a specific field or context. It's useful when contrasting a standard approach with an exception or alternative.

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on "normally used" when more specific and descriptive language can be employed. Instead of saying something is "normally used", consider how it's used and replace it with more informative phrasing. For example, instead of "This tool is normally used for cutting", try "This tool efficiently cuts through metal".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "normally used" functions as an adverbial modifier describing the typical application or purpose of something. It specifies how an object, method, or concept is generally employed, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "normally used" is a versatile phrase that serves to indicate the standard or typical application of something. According to Ludwig, it is considered grammatically correct and exhibits very common usage across a variety of sources, with news and media and scientific publications being the most frequent contexts. While perfectly acceptable in most situations, writers should be mindful of potential wordiness and strive for more descriptive language when appropriate. Remember, you can replace it with "commonly used" or "typically used".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

conventionally used

Focuses on established customs or standards.

routinely used

Emphasizes the habitual or regular nature of the usage.

regularly used

Highlights the consistent and repeated use of something.

commonly used

Indicates widespread or general usage among a population.

frequently used

Stresses the high number of instances of use.

typically used

Highlights the usual or expected use of something in a certain context.

generally used

Indicates widespread but not necessarily universal usage.

ordinarily used

Suggests a standard or typical application, often in contrast to special cases.

customarily used

Implies use based on long-standing tradition or practice.

invariably used

Highlights a use without variation or exception.

FAQs

How can I rephrase the expression "normally used"?

Consider using alternatives like "commonly used", "typically used", or "routinely used" to add nuance or specificity to your writing.

Is there a difference between "normally used" and "commonly used"?

"Normally used" implies a standard practice, while "commonly used" suggests widespread usage. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize standardization or prevalence.

What is the appropriate register for using "normally used"?

The phrase "normally used" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal or scientific writing, consider more precise alternatives to enhance clarity, such as "conventionally used".

How to use "normally used" in a sentence to describe a standard procedure?

You can say, "This method is "normally used" in laboratories for data analysis", indicating that it's the usual procedure for this type of work.