signs of use

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "signs of use" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe indications that an item or object has been utilized or handled in some way. Example: "The old book had visible signs of use, with dog-eared pages and a worn cover."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

Inside, the church was musty, though with signs of use.

The New Yorker

Although newly repaired, they show signs of use.

The New York Times - Arts

Beyond that, only a few signs of use have appeared: the name Violet, scratched into one of those sofa-boulders.

The New York Times

And between them is a shorter eight-sided jar, cherished for its signs of use and aging; around its foot, the jar's warmly yellow clay has worn through the glaze, each patch serendipitously accented by an indolently curving crack.

The New York Times - Arts

His subjects are antique vessels (a silvered glass cup, a brass coffeepot, several ceramic and enamelled pitchers) all showing signs of use, most seen in splendid isolation; they can be read as modest self-portraits.

The New Yorker

The library, featured on the cover of the school's handsome brochure, is a tiny, dusty room with a desk, a handful of chairs and a few dozen books that show little signs of use.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

And with net prices falling from continuing rebates and cheap financing, consumers continue to show signs of using discounts to trade up to luxury brands.

The New York Times

Watch for signs of "using.

WikiHow

The patient will also exhibit signs of using other muscles to breath.

WikiHow

In Moreh a new "Traders' Facility Centre" shows little sign of use.

The Economist

His car was the cleanest I have ever travelled in; the lone sign of use was a sanitizer wipe in the passenger-door pocket.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the condition of an object, be specific about the "signs of use" you observe. For example, instead of saying 'the book showed signs of use', specify 'the book showed signs of use, such as a cracked spine and dog-eared pages'.

Common error

Avoid vague statements like 'it has signs of use' without elaborating. Detail the specific signs, such as 'scratches', 'fading', or 'worn edges', to provide a clearer picture.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "signs of use" primarily functions as a noun phrase, acting as the object of a verb or preposition to indicate visible evidence that something has been utilized. Ludwig provides several examples where it describes the condition or state of various items.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "signs of use" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe the condition of an item that shows evidence of prior utilization. Ludwig confirms its correctness and provides numerous examples across diverse contexts, including news, science, and general writing. While generally neutral in register, specifying the exact nature of the signs enhances clarity. Alternatives such as "indications of wear" or "evidence of use" can be employed for subtle variations in meaning. Mastering the usage of "signs of use" ensures precise and informative communication regarding the state of objects and materials.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

indications of wear

Focuses specifically on the wear and tear aspect of use.

evidence of use

Emphasizes the proof or confirmation of use.

traces of use

Highlights minimal or subtle indications of use.

marks of use

Stresses the physical marks left behind from use.

indications of usage

A more formal synonym for "signs of use".

evidence of wear

Highlights the effects of use over time.

manifestations of use

Suggests a broader range of possible indications beyond physical marks.

observable usage

Emphasizes that the use is visible and apparent.

visible wear

Focuses solely on the wear that can be seen.

physical indications of use

Adds emphasis to tangible elements of use.

FAQs

What does "signs of use" mean?

The phrase "signs of use" refers to observable indications or evidence that an item has been used or handled previously. These can include physical marks, wear and tear, or other alterations resulting from normal or prolonged use.

What are some synonyms for "signs of use"?

You can use alternatives like "indications of wear", "evidence of use", or "traces of use" depending on the context.

How do you describe "signs of use" effectively?

Be specific and descriptive. Instead of just saying something has "signs of use", detail what those signs are, such as scratches, fading, or worn edges.

Is it better to say "signs of use" or "evidence of use"?

Both "signs of use" and "evidence of use" are acceptable. "Signs of use" is slightly more general, while "evidence of use" may imply a more conclusive proof of prior usage.