use judiciously

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "use judiciously" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when advising someone to use something carefully and thoughtfully, often to avoid waste or misuse. Example: "When applying for jobs, make sure to use your references judiciously to ensure they provide the best impression."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

The new comprehensive statistics on national origin would be put to use judiciously.

The New York Times

Kate McGrath, the bar's assistant manager, said she recognized the man but did not think the incident warranted the early-warning text system, which many said they would use judiciously.

The New York Times

Use judiciously.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

You'd be surprised how useful a cliché can be, used judiciously.

The Guardian

"If democratic institutions work well and it is used judiciously, it can make us safer".

BBC

Hydrocolloids are useful in treating venous ulcers, pressure ulcers and (if used judiciously) diabetic foot ulcers.

Clinical interventions in aging

"I hope it's used judiciously.

The New York Times - Sports

But this can only happen when you're used judiciously.

The Guardian

For example, when used judiciously, SO2 can limit acetaldehyde production.

Cornell University

But drones should be used judiciously, for very important targets.

The New York Times

That power, though, is often not used judiciously.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In contexts where over-application is a concern, "use judiciously" can signal a need for moderation to prevent adverse effects.

Common error

While grammatically sound, "use judiciously" may sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "use wisely" or "be careful" in informal settings to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "use judiciously" functions as an adverbial modifier, specifying the manner in which an action (the verb it modifies) should be carried out. According to Ludwig, this phrase is correct and usable in written English, advising careful and thoughtful usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

17%

Science

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "use judiciously" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that advises careful and thoughtful application to avoid waste or misuse. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's best employed in neutral to formal contexts, with alternatives like "use wisely" or "apply thoughtfully" suitable for less formal settings. While not exceptionally common, its presence in reputable sources such as The New York Times and The Guardian underscores its value in conveying prudence and consideration in usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

use wisely

Emphasizes the beneficial outcome of careful use; focuses on intelligence in application.

use prudently

Highlights careful and economical resource management; suitable for financial or resource-related contexts.

use sparingly

Suggests using something in small amounts; often implies a limited resource or potential for overuse.

apply thoughtfully

Focuses on the mental consideration behind the use, highlighting intention and careful planning.

employ carefully

Emphasizes precision and attention to detail in the application; suitable for tools, techniques, or strategies.

handle with care

Suggests fragility or potential for damage, emphasizing the need for gentle and deliberate use.

use circumspectly

Implies caution and awareness of potential risks or consequences; suitable for sensitive situations.

exercise restraint

Suggests controlling one's impulses or urges, indicating a need for moderation and self-control in usage.

manage efficiently

Focuses on optimizing resource allocation and minimizing waste; often used in business or project management contexts.

administer thoughtfully

Implies managing or dispensing something with care and consideration for its impact on others.

FAQs

How can I incorporate "use judiciously" into a sentence?

You can use "use judiciously" to advise someone to apply something with care and thought. For instance, "use judiciously when allocating project resources to maximize efficiency".

Are there simpler ways to express the meaning of "use judiciously"?

Yes, depending on the context, you can substitute with phrases like "use wisely", "use carefully", or "use sparingly".

Is it appropriate to use "use judiciously" in everyday conversation?

While grammatically correct, "use judiciously" leans toward formal. For casual contexts, consider alternatives like "be careful" or "think before you use".

What's the difference between "use judiciously" and "use generously"?

"Use judiciously" suggests careful and restrained application, whereas "use generously" implies liberal and abundant application. They are antonyms in terms of quantity and consideration.