still usable

USAGE SUMMARY

"still usable" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that has been used before but is still functional. For example, "This old laptop is still usable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

The semen sample was badly degraded, but still usable.

The New York Times - Magazine

The predecessor phrase, critical mass, though dated, is still usable.

The New York Times - Magazine

He could sell his building materials to the contractor, at least what was still usable.

The New York Times

Sameh owned a pair of binoculars, and though one eyepiece was broken they were still usable.

The New York Times - Magazine

If you have furniture or large items that are still usable, donating them to charity makes sense.

The Guardian - Money

He also said many buildings had been demolished while they were still usable, adding: "That is a disaster for both the environment and resources".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

He said he was hoping to find a still-usable castoff — broken, but not broken enough to be useless.

The New York Times

Landis is better at describing a different sort of ache: the uncertainty of deciding when and how to swap out a painful-but-still-usable body part.

The New York Times - Magazine

In order to understand the e-waste system, particularly used computers, as a whole, a field study was done between 2010 and 2011 in ten Mexican cities. Ninety-five diverstakeholdersers were interviewed to uncover factors regarding the decision to waste or trade still-usable computers.

Resources, Conservation and Recycling

What makes that even worse is that much of it is still perfectly usable.

The Guardian - Arts

Yet it still has usable public transit in a lot more cities than we do.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing an item as "still usable", specify any limitations or compromises in its functionality. For example, "The old bicycle is still usable, but the brakes are a bit loose."

Common error

Avoid describing something as "still usable" if its condition severely impairs its functionality. Be realistic about the extent to which the item can still be used effectively.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "still usable" functions primarily as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It describes the state of something, indicating that it retains its usefulness or functionality despite potential wear, damage, or obsolescence. Ludwig AI confirms this usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "still usable" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe something that retains its functionality despite potential imperfections. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s used across various contexts, from News & Media to scientific writing, indicating its broad applicability. When using "still usable", it's helpful to specify the extent and limitations of the item's usability. Related phrases include "functional enough" and "in working order". It’s important to avoid overstating the usability of an item if its condition significantly impairs its functionality. Remember, it is applicable when describing something which is not brand new and you want to imply it can be used anyway.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can still be used

A more explicit way of stating that something remains usable.

in working order

Specifies that the item is currently operational.

remains functional

Highlights the continuation of functionality over time.

fit for purpose

Stresses suitability for a specific task.

functional enough

Emphasizes the minimum level of functionality required.

good enough to use

Highlights it meets a minimum threshold of acceptability.

serviceable condition

Focuses on the item's state being adequate for use.

remains effective

Highlights continued effectiveness despite potential degradation.

viable option

Suggests that the item or method is a practical choice.

partially functional

Indicates that some features may not be working, but overall it's usable.

FAQs

How can I use "still usable" in a sentence?

You can use "still usable" to describe an item that is not new or in perfect condition, but it can be used for its intended purpose. For example, "Even though the car is old, it's "still usable" for commuting."

What is a good alternative to "still usable"?

Alternatives include "functional enough", "in working order", or "serviceable condition", depending on the specific context.

What does it mean when something is "still usable"?

It means that despite age, wear, or minor damage, the item retains sufficient functionality to be used for its intended purpose. It does not imply that the item is in perfect or optimal condition.

Is there a difference between "still usable" and "brand new"?

Yes, "brand new" indicates that an item is unused and in perfect condition. "Still usable" implies that the item has been used before and may have some imperfections, but it "can still be used".