principally use

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "principally use" is not correct in standard written English.
It may be intended to convey the idea of using something primarily or mainly, but the correct form would be "principally used" or "primarily used." Example: "The software is principally used for data analysis in research."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

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Vice

Afghan and Iraqi forces principally use weapons designed by the Soviet Union.

The New York Times

In addition, trips by tour boats and other recreational and commercial vessels, which principally use the Chicago Lock near Navy Pier, fell 39 percent during the period, to 34,249 total trips, Professor Taylor wrote.

The New York Times

These systems principally use renewable energy sources but may also have a fossil fuel element in the energy mix.

Energy, Sustainability and Society

Rumen methanogens principally use H2 to reduce CO2 to CH4 in a series of reactions that are coupled to ATP synthesis.

Plosone

These fatty acids are generated by variant FAD2 hydroxylases that principally use oleic acid (18 1Δ9) bound to phosphatidylcholine as a substrate.

Current Opinion in Plant Biology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

The Maine Transpass is principally used by commuters.

The New York Times - Travel

Yahoo principally uses FreeBSD, which is well regarded for its stability and its strong security.

The New York Times - Tech

The one area thus far where PTAB use was confirmed is principally used for grazing.

The New York Times

At Auckland University College, Guy gained a PhD for research principally using x-ray analysis combined with analytical chemistry.

The Guardian

Ultraviolet-visible absorptiometry is principally used for quantitative analysis of atoms or molecules.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you intend to convey that something is mainly or primarily employed, prefer the construction "principally used" or "primarily used" instead of "principally use". For example, say "This method is principally used for data analysis".

Common error

Avoid using "principally use" because it's grammatically incorrect. The correct form is "principally used", ensuring the verb agrees with the adverb. Choose the correct form to maintain clarity and precision in your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "principally use" functions as a verb phrase, attempting to describe the primary way something is employed. However, as Ludwig AI clarifies, it's grammatically incorrect and requires the past participle form, "used."

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

40%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while "principally use" is intended to convey the main way something is utilized, it's grammatically incorrect. As Ludwig AI points out, the correct form is "principally used". The phrase appears most frequently in scientific and news contexts. When writing, remember to use the past participle "used" to ensure grammatical accuracy. Alternatives like "primarily employ" or "chiefly utilize" can also be considered. Avoiding this error will improve the clarity and precision of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

primarily employ

Replaces "use" with "employ" and "principally" with "primarily", both suggesting the main way something is utilized.

chiefly utilize

Substitutes "principally" with "chiefly" and "use" with "utilize", indicating the main method of application.

mainly apply

Changes "principally" to "mainly" and "use" to "apply", focusing on the primary application of something.

primarily resort to

Emphasizes that something is the first choice, the main thing to turn to, shifting the focus slightly from general usage.

predominantly consume

Focuses on consumption as the primary action, which is more specific than general use.

largely depend on

Shifts the meaning to reliance on something as the main resource, rather than active use.

generally work with

Changes the focus to the typical interaction or handling of something, implying standard practice.

typically handle

Highlights the typical way something is managed or dealt with, instead of simply being used.

conventionally exploit

Suggests a common, established way of leveraging something, with a stronger implication of benefit or gain.

customarily operate with

Implies a habitual or routine manner of working with something, rather than a simple act of use.

FAQs

Is "principally use" grammatically correct?

No, "principally use" is not grammatically correct. The correct form is "principally used". For example: "This method is "principally used" for data analysis".

What does "principally used" mean?

"Principally used" means mainly or primarily used for a specific purpose. It indicates the primary application or function of something.

What are some alternatives to "principally use"?

You can use phrases like "mainly apply", "primarily employ", or "chiefly utilize" as alternatives to "principally use". Each of these options can replace the original phrase, as each of them have a very similar meaning.

How can I correctly use "principally" in a sentence?

Use "principally" to modify a past participle. For example, "The area is "principally used" for grazing." Avoid using it directly with a base verb like "use".