under heavy usage

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "under heavy usage" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where something is being used frequently or intensively, often leading to wear or strain. Example: "The software is currently under heavy usage, which may result in slower response times."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

It is also relatively light on the battery: I found it lasted a good day and half on a single charge under heavy usage without activating any of the power-saving modes.

The Guardian - Tech

This change exposed a memory management bug which was only evident under heavy usage.

TechCrunch

Typically files are uploaded one at a time via a web interface, which is fine for just a file or two but breaks down under heavy usage.

TechCrunch

2) They have a durable binding that won't fail under heavy usage.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

(The vast majority of Bitcoin trades are executed in United States Dollars, implying heavy usage by United States citizens that fall under the purview of the IRS).

TechCrunch

Over my lifetime, heavy usage has woefully eroded profanity's power.

The Guardian - Opinion

Much of the heavy usage hugs the coasts; California's in-state system sees decent traffic.

The Washington Post

The concern is focused largely on the link between heavy usage and psychosis in young people.

The New York Times - Health

It has a "class leading" 2,300 mAh battery, which Sony says should last a day of heavy usage.

The Guardian - Tech

Aged 27, he's been a heavy usage player since he was 15, and it has taken its toll.

The Guardian - Tech

"We are committed to keeping the stations as clean as humanly possible, given their extraordinarily heavy usage," Mr. O'Leary said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing potential strain on a system or device, use "under heavy usage" to highlight the increased likelihood of problems.

Common error

Avoid using "under heavy usage" when simply indicating something is popular. It's more appropriate when emphasizing potential strain or consequences due to overuse. Use alternatives like "widely used" or "popular" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "under heavy usage" typically functions as an adverbial prepositional phrase, modifying a verb or clause to describe the conditions or circumstances under which an action occurs. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is acceptable for use in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "under heavy usage" is a grammatically correct and commonly used prepositional phrase to describe a situation where something is being used extensively. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s suitable for various writing contexts, particularly when highlighting the potential strain or consequences of high demand. While its register is generally neutral, it’s essential to use it appropriately, avoiding overuse in situations where simpler alternatives like "widely used" are more suitable. The phrase appears most frequently in News & Media and Scientific contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

subject to intense use

Focuses on the intensity of the usage rather than just the frequency.

in high demand

Highlights the popularity and request rate leading to heavy use.

experiencing significant use

Emphasizes the amount of use that is happening.

heavily utilized

A more concise, adjectival way of expressing the same concept.

in constant operation

Implies a continuous state of being used, possibly to the limit of capabilities.

undergoing rigorous application

Highlights testing or systematic application.

subjected to strenuous activity

Suggests a demanding level of exertion or work.

at full capacity

Indicates use to the maximum extent of capability.

pushed to its limits

Emphasizes the potential for failure due to overuse.

tested to the extreme

Focuses on how rigorously something is being examined.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "under heavy usage" to sound more formal?

In more formal contexts, you could replace "under heavy usage" with phrases like "subject to intense use", or "experiencing significant demand". These alternatives offer a more professional tone.

What are some signs that a system is "under heavy usage"?

Signs can include slower response times, increased error rates, or system crashes. These indicate that the system's capacity is being strained due to the high demand.

Is there a difference between "under heavy usage" and "under normal usage"?

"Under heavy usage" implies a higher than typical level of activity, potentially leading to strain or performance issues. "Under normal usage", conversely, suggests the system is operating within expected parameters. Therefore, the "under normal usage" is not causing unusual problems.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "under heavy usage"?

Use "under heavy usage" when you want to emphasize the impact of high demand on a system or resource. This is particularly relevant when discussing potential problems or limitations.