previously used for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "previously used for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the former purpose or function of an object, space, or concept. Example: "The building was previously used for a library before it was converted into a community center."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Several collections of TB related compounds have been previously used for generating Bayesian Models by us.

Journal of Cheminformatics

60, a cavernous loft previously used for sorting mail.

The New York Times - Travel

If the land was previously used for subsistence farming, the situation likely becomes worse".

The Guardian

The space was previously used for receptions, conventions and intermission milling.

The New York Times

The disused airfield was previously used for grazing sheep and cattle and growing oilseed rape.

The Guardian

We've already seen publishers swap their budgets previously used for XBLA titles to mobile titles.

The Guardian - Tech

Rumour also has it your seats were previously used for Tony Blair's mobile press conferences.

The Guardian

Also, government reforestation plans have taken up some land previously used for grain.

The New York Times

Fallingwater was built on a rock ledge that the Kaufmanns had previously used for sunning and swimming.

The Guardian - Arts

Atwater came up with the idea of the food calorie, adapting a measurement previously used for heat energy.

The New Yorker

In fact, it is built on prime arable land which was previously used for crops, rather than grazing.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing changes in function, clearly state both the previous and current uses to provide context. For example, "The space, previously used for storage, is now a modern office."

Common error

Avoid using "previously used for" when describing the current purpose. Instead, use "is used for" or "serves as" to indicate the present function.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "previously used for" functions as a descriptor, specifying a past purpose or function. Ludwig AI's examples demonstrate its use in describing the former role of spaces, objects, or methods.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

42%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "previously used for" is a versatile descriptor used to indicate the past function or purpose of something. Ludwig AI confirms it's grammatically correct and frequently employed across diverse contexts, from news and media to scientific and formal business settings. When writing, it's important to ensure you're using it to describe a past, not current, function. Remember to be clear about both the previous and present use for optimal clarity. Consider more formal alternatives like "formerly utilized for" in professional contexts. By understanding its nuances, you can effectively use "previously used for" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

was originally for

Highlights the initial purpose before any subsequent changes.

formerly utilized for

Emphasizes a more formal or official tone compared to the original phrase.

has earlier been used for

Similar to the original phrase but with slightly different word order.

historically employed for

Highlights the historical aspect of the usage, suggesting a long-standing tradition.

once served as

Implies a change in role or purpose, focusing on a past function.

in the past was for

Puts emphasis on the temporality of the action.

was at one time used for

Emphasizes that it only occurred at one point in time.

was earlier intended for

Focuses on the original intention or design behind the usage.

had been designated for

Indicates a formal assignment or purpose that has since changed.

was once dedicated to

Specifies a commitment or devotion to a particular purpose in the past.

FAQs

How can I use "previously used for" in a sentence?

Use "previously used for" to describe the past function or purpose of something that has since changed. For example, "This building was "previously used for" a library but is now a community center".

What's a formal alternative to "previously used for"?

A more formal alternative is "formerly utilized for". This phrase is suitable for official documents or business communications.

Is it correct to say "currently used for" instead of describing a past use?

No, "currently used for" describes the present function. Use ""previously used for"" to indicate a past purpose that is no longer the case.

What is the difference between "originally used for" and ""previously used for""?

"Originally used for" emphasizes the initial purpose, while ""previously used for"" simply indicates a past use without necessarily implying it was the first use.