usage of the word

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "usage of the word" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to refer to the way a word is used or applied in a particular context or sentence. Example: As a language teacher, I often have to explain the usage of certain words to my students. For example, the word "irregardless" is not considered standard English and should not be used in formal writing.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

After 2000, nontraditional usage of the word took off.

The New York Times

It's not the usage of the word but the acceptance of the behavior that counts.

The New Yorker

Megan Garber on how linguists are recognizing new usage of the word "because".

The New Yorker

Should Mr. Shortz have been more aware of the current usage of the word?

The New York Times

The Court found the second usage of the word to constitute racial abuse.

The New York Times

According to Google's Ngram Viewer, the peak year for usage of the word "papa" in literature was 1869.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Since then the usage of the word has exploded, more than tripling in the last five years.

The New York Times

At Gore's repeated usage of the word, Bradley edged it with increasing scorn, adding, "I'm not someone who's interested in tactics, Al".

The New York Times - Magazine

Spend some time on the Internet, and you'll start to see a peculiar usage of the word fail popping up everywhere.

The New York Times

The O.E.D. gives the first usage of the word "list" as appearing in "Hamlet" — Fortinbras is said to have drawn up a "list of lawelesse resolutes".

The New Yorker

Technological advances, as well as the sheer unadulterated vanity of social media, means that usage of the word "selfie" has increased by 17,000% over the past year.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Pay attention to the register in which a word is used. For example, a word may have a formal meaning and an informal, colloquial meaning. Context is key when examining "usage of the word".

Common error

Avoid focusing solely on the dictionary definition when discussing the "usage of the word". Usage encompasses not just the definition, but also the social, cultural, and contextual factors that influence how the word is understood and employed by speakers and writers.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "usage of the word" functions as a noun phrase that identifies and focuses on how a particular word is employed in language. Ludwig's analysis confirms that this phrase is widely used in various contexts to discuss and analyze the application of words.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "usage of the word" is a common and grammatically correct phrase that refers to the manner in which a particular word is employed. As Ludwig AI points out, it appears frequently in news, science, and general reference contexts. When analyzing "usage of the word", it's important to consider the historical background, the intended audience, and the potential for confusion between usage and strict definition. By understanding these nuances, writers can better appreciate the complexity and dynamism of language. To enhance clarity and avoid monotony, consider alternatives such as "word application" or "term's application" when appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

word application

Focuses on the practical use of a word in different contexts.

word employment

Highlights the act of using a word to achieve a specific purpose.

term's application

Emphasizes the use of a specific term.

lexical usage

Refers to the use of vocabulary in a particular context.

phraseology of the word

Describes the way a word is phrased or expressed.

expression's use

Highlights the act of using a specific expression.

wording's implementation

Focuses on how specific wording is put into practice.

utterance of the term

Highlights a specific instance of a term being spoken or written.

lexical item's deployment

Focuses on how a specific lexical item is strategically used.

semantic application

Highlights the practical application of a word's meaning.

FAQs

How can I determine the correct "usage of the word" in a sentence?

Consider the context, audience, and purpose of your writing. Consulting a dictionary and examining example sentences can also help you understand how the word is typically used.

What resources can help me understand the historical "usage of the word"?

The Oxford English Dictionary and other etymological resources can provide information about the origins and evolution of a word's meaning and "word application".

Is there a difference between "usage of the word" and "the use of the word"?

The terms are largely interchangeable and share similar meanings. "Usage of the word" might subtly emphasize the established or customary way a word is employed, while the phrase "the use of the word" can describe a specific instance of someone using the word.

How does the intended audience affect the "usage of the word"?

The audience influences the register and level of formality you choose. For a professional audience, use standard and precise vocabulary. For a general audience, consider using more accessible "lexical usage" and avoiding jargon.