several uses

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "several uses" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to multiple applications or functions of an object, concept, or idea. Example: "This tool has several uses, including cutting, shaping, and joining materials."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The unified approach allows us to propose several uses for hybrid materials, beyond their traditionally posited applications, including gas sensing, photoelectrochemistry, and as hybrid transistors.

ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces

Creme fraiche has several uses.

The New York Times - Food

PROFANITY -- Movies need several uses of the four-letter word to receive an R rating.

The New York Times

The smoker is fairly easy to clean, though after several uses, there will be permanent blackening.

The New York Times - Food

A museum is one of several uses that the city is considering for the waterfront property.

The New York Times

Fred came up with several uses in the late 1970's in business publications.

The New York Times - Magazine

For Android users, Car Locator ($3.99) offers a free trial version good for several uses.

The New York Times - Travel

The casino and hotel operator Harrah's Entertainment of Las Vegas has tested several uses of Wi-Fi at its properties.

The New York Times

And several states, counties and local jurisdictions have bans or restrictions on several uses of BPA in various products.

The New York Times

Several uses may be combined, as in a white phosphorous grenade that has smoke, incendiary, and antipersonnel effects.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In a prayer book presumably owned by a Protestant reformist, all the passages referring to indulgences have been crossed out, and so have several uses of the word "pope".

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the "several uses" of something, be specific and provide examples to illustrate each use clearly.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that something has "several uses" without providing specific examples. This lacks informative value for the reader. Instead, clearly outline each distinct use.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "several uses" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes that something has multiple applications or functions. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

47%

News & Media

37%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "several uses" is a common and grammatically correct way to indicate that something has more than one application or function. As Ludwig shows, it appears frequently across diverse sources like scientific articles, news reports, and general reference materials. While alternatives such as "multiple applications" or "various functions" exist, "several uses" provides a clear and concise way to convey the idea of multiple functionalities. When using this phrase, ensure you provide specific examples or details to enhance clarity and informative value for your audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

multiple applications

Focuses on the number of applications rather than the act of using.

various functions

Highlights the different roles something can fulfill.

numerous purposes

Emphasizes the many intended aims or goals.

diverse applications

Suggests the applications are varied and distinct from one another.

multiple roles

Highlights the different capacities or positions that something can have.

a range of applications

Indicates a spectrum of possible uses.

various ways of using

Focuses on the different methods or manners of employment.

several avenues for utilization

Suggests strategic pathways for putting something into service.

multiple avenues for exploitation

Suggests strategic possibilities for using something for its own ends.

a multitude of functionalities

Emphasizes the numerous functional capabilities.

FAQs

How can I use "several uses" in a sentence?

You can use "several uses" to describe the multiple applications or functions of something. For instance, "This tool has "several uses", including cutting, shaping, and joining materials."

What are some alternatives to "several uses"?

Alternatives to "several uses" include "multiple applications", "various functions", or "numerous purposes", depending on the context.

Is it better to list the uses instead of saying "several uses"?

In many cases, yes. Listing specific uses provides more clarity and detail than simply stating ""several uses"". For example, instead of saying "This app has several uses", specify what those uses are.

What's the difference between "several uses" and "many uses"?

"Several uses" implies a limited number of uses, typically more than two but less than many. "Many uses" suggests a larger, less defined number. They are often interchangeable, but ""several uses"" is slightly more precise.