to be used

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'to be used' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it as part of a verb phrase, as demonstrated in the example below. This tool is designed to be used for cutting metal plates.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Lifestyle

Opinion

Books

Science

Sports

TV & Radio

World

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Sport

Africa

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Capital had to be used efficiently.

The Economist

"We want them to be used.

The New York Times - Arts

/ They want to be used".

The New York Times - Books

Exact material to be used.

Stanford University

L. 109 162 substituted "to be used" for "to be used to be used".

Cornell University

Steel mullions had to be used.

The New York Times - Arts

Self-hate needs to be used sparingly.

The Guardian - Opinion

Inkjet printers love to be used.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

To be used for public purposes.

The New York Times

They ought to be used to it.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Resources are supposed to be used.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the intended function of a tool or resource, use "to be used" followed by a prepositional phrase that specifies the purpose. For example, "This software is designed to be used for data analysis."

Common error

While "to be used" is grammatically correct, overuse can lead to passive voice constructions. Strive for active voice where appropriate for more direct and engaging writing. For example, instead of "The data is to be used for the report", consider "We will use the data for the report".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to be used" primarily functions as an infinitive phrase, often acting as an adjective or adverb modifying a noun or verb. It specifies the intended purpose or function of something. Ludwig AI confirms its correct grammatical usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Academia

13%

Lifestyle

6%

Less common in

Opinion

5%

Books

4%

Science

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to be used" is a grammatically correct and very common infinitive phrase that indicates the intended function or application of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely applicable across various contexts, with a neutral register suitable for both formal and informal communication. While versatile, careful attention should be paid to avoid overuse in passive voice constructions, and alternatives like "for utilization" or "intended for application" may be suitable in more formal contexts. Remember to use "to be used" to clarify the purpose of a tool or resource, but also consider active voice options for more direct writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

for utilization

This alternative emphasizes the act of making something useful or functional.

designed for operation

This emphasizes the intended functionality and design purpose.

intended for application

This phrase focuses on the planned or designed use of something.

slated for deployment

Suggests a planned and organized use, often in a strategic context.

awaiting application

Highlights that something is waiting and ready to be put into practical use.

ready for employment

This suggests that something is prepared and available to be put to work.

suitable for implementation

Focuses on the appropriateness and feasibility of using something in a practical way.

available to be harnessed

This suggests something is ready to be controlled and utilized for a specific purpose.

available for service

This highlights the readiness and accessibility of something for a specific task.

set for exploitation

Implies the use of something to its fullest potential, sometimes with a connotation of resource extraction.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "to be used" to sound more active?

Consider using active voice constructions such as "for using", "intending to use", or "will use" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "to be used"?

While grammatically permissible, starting a sentence with "to be used" can sometimes sound awkward. Rephrasing to place the subject first often improves clarity. For example, instead of "To be used effectively, this tool requires training", try "This tool requires training to be used effectively".

What's a formal alternative to "to be used"?

Formal alternatives include phrases like "for utilization", "intended for application", or "designated for service".

What does it mean when something is described as "to be utilized"?

Describing something as "to be utilized" suggests that it is available and intended for a practical purpose or function. It implies a more formal and efficient use compared to simply "to be used".