stop using

USAGE SUMMARY

"stop using" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to indicate that someone should cease using something. You can use it in a variety of situations, such as when giving instructions or advice, or in a persuasive argument. Example: "Please stop using your phone while driving, it's dangerous and puts yourself and others at risk."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Stop using checks.

The New York Times

"Can we stop using guns?

The New York Times

You should stop using it.

The Guardian

We gotta stop using them.

The Guardian - Film

Everyone would stop using it.

The Washington Post

They all ought to stop using drugs.

The New Yorker

Gardeners should stop using peat moss.

The New York Times

"Oh, stop using those foul words".

The New Yorker

But actually stop using the stuff?

The Economist

Stop using fossil fuels to make electricity.

The Economist

One option is to stop using silicon.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When advising someone to "stop using" something, clearly state the reason to enhance the impact of your recommendation. For example, "Stop using plastic straws to reduce environmental pollution."

Common error

Avoid simply saying "stop using" without specifying what action to take instead. Provide a viable alternative or a clear course of action to follow.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stop using" functions primarily as an imperative, urging the cessation of an action or the discontinuation of the use of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s a direct command. Examples from Ludwig show this command applied in various contexts, from environmental concerns to personal habits.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

7%

Encyclopedias

7%

Reference

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "stop using" is a versatile and commonly used imperative phrase that directly advises or instructs someone to cease a particular action. As Ludwig AI points out, it is grammatically correct and usable in various scenarios. The phrase is most frequently found in news and media, as well as wiki-based content. While the phrase is straightforward, it's best practice to provide a clear reason or alternative action when using it. Related phrases such as "discontinue usage" or "cease to use" can provide a more formal tone, while alternatives like "quit using" are suitable for informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

do not use

A direct and simple command to not use something.

cease to use

A more emphatic and formal way to express stopping the use of something.

no longer use

Highlights the change from past usage to present non-usage.

discontinue usage

More formal alternative, often used in official or technical contexts.

quit using

More informal and direct, suitable for everyday conversation.

avoid using

Implies a desire to prevent the use of something, often due to negative consequences.

refrain from using

Suggests a conscious effort to avoid using something.

eliminate from use

Indicates a complete removal or ban on using something.

abstain from use

Formal and often used when discussing habits or substances.

desist from using

A formal and somewhat archaic way to say stop using.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "stop using" in a more formal context?

In formal settings, you can use phrases like "discontinue usage" or "cease to use" to convey a similar meaning with a more professional tone.

What are some informal alternatives to "stop using"?

For casual conversations, consider using phrases such as "quit using" or "avoid using" which are more relaxed and direct.

Is there a difference between "stop using" and "refrain from using"?

"Stop using" is a direct command to cease usage. "Refrain from using" suggests a more conscious and deliberate effort to avoid something, often due to a specific reason or principle.

When should I use "do not use" instead of "stop using"?

"Do not use" is best suited for instructions or warnings, often found on product labels or in official guidelines, whereas "stop using" is generally used in conversational contexts or when advising someone to change a habit.