practically unusable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "practically unusable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is nearly impossible to use or function effectively. Example: "The software update made the application practically unusable, causing frequent crashes and errors."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

They are practically unusable.

The Guardian - Tech

Some have experienced terrible battery life since the bug, others have found their iPhones practically unusable.

The Guardian - Tech

Port-au-Prince's docks are practically unusable because of two severely damaged wharfs and debris in the harbour.

The Guardian

This leads indeed to solutions with a hierarchic layout, but they are practically unusable as the floor boarding is absent.

Advanced Engineering Informatics

The additional online traffic nearly choked out the Brodeurs, who pay a $40 monthly fee for their Internet service, slowing their access until it was practically unusable.

The New York Times

Parts of the Ragged School Museum building in Limehouse – including badly leaking roofs – are in such a poor state that they are practically unusable.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Completely unusable.

The New York Times

Computer was quickly unusable.

The New York Times

It's now unusable.

The New York Times

The water was unusable.

The Guardian

It's become unusable.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the severity of a condition, use "practically unusable" to emphasize that something is almost, but not entirely, impossible to use. This conveys a nuanced understanding of its functionality.

Common error

Avoid using "practically unusable" when something is completely unusable. Reserve the phrase for situations where there's a theoretical possibility of use, however limited or impractical.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "practically unusable" functions as a qualifier, specifically an adjectival phrase modifying a noun. It describes the extent to which something is not able to be used effectively. Ludwig confirms the correct usage of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Science

29%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "practically unusable" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe something that is extremely difficult or almost impossible to use effectively. Ludwig AI confirms that it is a correct and appropriate expression. It's most frequently found in news and media, as well as scientific contexts. When writing, use it to convey a nuanced sense of near-impossibility, reserving "unusable" for cases of complete failure. Consider alternatives such as "virtually unusable" or "almost unusable" to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

virtually unusable

Emphasizes that something is so close to being unusable that it effectively is.

almost unusable

Indicates a state very near to being unusable, with only a small margin preventing total unusability.

nearly unusable

Similar to "almost unusable", suggesting it's on the verge of being unusable.

effectively unusable

Highlights that, regardless of its intended use, it does not function properly in practice.

functionally unusable

Focuses on the lack of practical function, making it not suitable for its intended purpose.

as good as unusable

Expresses that the condition or quality is so poor, it's essentially unusable.

tantamount to unusable

Draws an equivalence to being unusable, highlighting a severe deficiency.

impractical to use

Shifts the focus to the impracticality of using the item or system, rendering it ineffective.

unfit for purpose

States that it doesn't meet the necessary requirements for its intended application.

inoperable in practice

Highlights a disconnect between theory and real-world operation, leading to failure in practical use.

FAQs

How can I use "practically unusable" in a sentence?

You can use "practically unusable" to describe something that is very difficult or almost impossible to use effectively. For example, "The software update made the application "practically unusable", causing frequent crashes and errors."

What are some alternatives to "practically unusable"?

Some alternatives include "virtually unusable", "almost unusable", or "nearly unusable". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it redundant to say "practically unusable"?

While "practically" and "unusable" might seem similar, "practically unusable" emphasizes the degree of difficulty in using something. It suggests that while not entirely impossible, it's close to it.

When is it appropriate to use "practically unusable" instead of just "unusable"?

Use "practically unusable" when you want to convey that something technically can be used, but the effort or limitations involved make it so difficult that it's not worth it. If something is entirely broken and cannot be used at all, "unusable" is more appropriate.