use this thing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "use this thing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when instructing someone to utilize a specific object or tool. Example: "If you're unsure how to proceed, just use this thing to help you complete the task."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

Yet how, exactly, are you supposed to use this thing?

The New York Times - Tech

You can use this thing on a restaurant table without looking obnoxious (much).

The New York Times - Tech

So a feast is the perfect time to use this thing.

Independent

He didn't care and said so. "I don't know how to use this thing," he said.

The New York Times

"It's astounding that Carl McCall would use this thing as a political football," he said.

The New York Times

I think we all can still use "this thing called hope".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

And you can provoke riots very easily using this thing.

The New York Times

So I'm going to keep using this thing until I can't anymore".

The New York Times - Tech

But folding the keyboard over and using this thing as a tablet is not an enjoyable experience.

The Guardian - Tech

Can anyone see actually using this thing?

TechCrunch

Still, though, I just can't imagine using this thing.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When instructing someone on how to operate something, be specific. Follow "use this thing" with a clear explanation of the steps involved.

Common error

Avoid using "use this thing" without context. Always specify what "thing" refers to, as ambiguity can lead to confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "use this thing" serves primarily as an instruction or suggestion to employ a particular object or tool. It is versatile and can be adapted to diverse scenarios, as seen in examples collected by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Wiki

13%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "use this thing" is a versatile phrase generally used to instruct, suggest, or inquire about the utilization of a particular object. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use, particularly in news and media contexts. While mostly neutral to informal, opting for more specific language enhances clarity in professional or formal settings. When employing "use this thing", ensure context is clear to avoid ambiguity. Remember that several alternatives can be found, but the meaning is slightly different based on the alternative picked.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

how can I use this

Inquires about the possible applications or functionalities.

utilize this item

Replaces "use" with a more formal synonym and "thing" with a more specific noun.

employ this device

Similar to "utilize this item", offering a more formal and specific alternative.

when to use this

Asks about appropriate scenarios or conditions for usage.

operate this equipment

Suggests a more technical or mechanical context.

how does this work

Focuses on understanding the operational mechanism.

how do I work this

Focuses on seeking instruction or guidance on usage.

what is this used for

Requests clarification on the object's intended application.

how to make this work

Shifts the focus to troubleshooting or problem-solving.

what's this for

Expresses curiosity or uncertainty about the object's purpose.

FAQs

How can I phrase a question using "use this thing"?

You might ask questions like "Why would you "use this thing"?" or "When should I "use this thing"?" depending on the context.

What are some alternatives to "use this thing"?

Alternatives include "utilize this item", "employ this device", or "operate this equipment", offering more formal or specific ways to express the same idea.

Is "use this thing" too informal for professional writing?

While generally acceptable, ""use this thing"" might be considered informal in certain professional contexts. Opt for more precise and professional language when possible.

How do I avoid ambiguity when saying "use this thing"?

To avoid ambiguity, always provide clear context. Specify exactly what "this thing" refers to, either by naming the object or describing its function.