used to commit

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "used to commit" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to actions or behaviors that are typically associated with committing a specific act, often in a legal or moral context. Example: "The evidence presented in court showed that the suspect used to commit various crimes before being apprehended."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Operation mode (see Figure 5): A fuzzy commitment scheme consists of a function F, used to commit a codeword c ∈ C and a witness x ∈ {0, 1} n.

EURASIP Journal on Information Security

They are weapons used to commit mass murder.

The Guardian

Two weapons were subsequently used to commit crimes.

The Washington Post

1253, 1326 (embezzled or stolen property; articles used to commit a felony; property to be used to commit a crime); Act of March 3 , 1901 31 Stat.

Cornell University

There have been concerns that drones are increasingly being used to commit crime.

The Guardian

"The criminal apparatus that was used to commit these crimes has been exposed".

The New York Times

In addition much of the money is used to commit further robberies.

The Guardian

"They have been used to commit atrocities under the influence of drugs".

The New York Times

Their passport may also be confiscated and may be used to commit identity fraud.

The Guardian

Almost all the passports are used to commit crimes outside Thailand, Tinawut told the magazine.

The Guardian

"No one the age of my son should be used to commit such acts.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing sensitive topics like crime or unethical actions, use "used to commit" to clearly indicate the tools, methods, or resources employed in those actions. This helps maintain a neutral tone while providing necessary information.

Common error

Avoid using "used to commit" when describing positive or neutral actions. This phrase carries a negative connotation, so using it inappropriately can create unintended implications. Opt for more neutral alternatives like "used for" or "used in" when describing ordinary processes or events.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "used to commit" functions as an infinitive phrase modifying a noun or pronoun, indicating the purpose or intended action for which something is utilized. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Academia

17%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "used to commit" is a grammatically correct and frequently employed expression, as affirmed by Ludwig. It serves to denote the specific purpose for which something is employed, typically within the context of illicit or unethical actions. Ludwig AI highlights its prevalence in news and media, alongside academic and scientific fields. When employing this phrase, consider its negative connotations and favor more neutral alternatives in positive contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

employed to perpetrate

Replaces "used" with "employed" and "commit" with "perpetrate", adding a slightly more formal tone.

utilized to carry out

Substitutes "used" with "utilized" and "commit" with "carry out", offering a more neutral and less accusatory connotation.

leveraged to execute

Replaces "used" with "leveraged" and "commit" with "execute", suggesting a strategic or resourceful application.

instrumental in performing

Shifts the focus to the role of the resource in "performing" an action rather than directly "committing" it.

served to facilitate

Highlights the enabling function, where the resource "facilitates" rather than directly causes the action.

applied to conduct

Substitutes "used" with "applied" and "commit" with "conduct", providing a less intense and more procedural tone.

harnessed to enact

Replaces "used" with "harnessed" and "commit" with "enact", implying controlled power or energy directed towards an act.

adapted for enacting

This alternative puts emphasis on the "adaptation" of something for "enacting" a specific action.

appropriated for undertaking

This alternative implies something was specifically "appropriated" or reserved for the purposes of "undertaking" or performing a action.

designed to achieve

Focuses on the intended outcome, suggesting the resource was "designed" with the purpose of "achieving" something.

FAQs

How can I use "used to commit" in a sentence?

You can use "used to commit" to describe the tools, methods, or resources employed in an act, typically a crime or unethical action. For example: "The suspect used a stolen car "used to commit" the robbery."

What are some alternatives to "used to commit"?

Alternatives include "employed to perpetrate", "utilized to carry out", or "leveraged to execute", depending on the context and desired level of formality.

Is "used to commit" grammatically correct?

Yes, "used to commit" is grammatically correct when describing the means by which an action, typically a negative one, is carried out. It follows standard English grammar rules.

What's the difference between "used to commit" and "used for"?

"Used to commit" implies a specific intent to employ something in the execution of an act, usually a crime or misdeed. "Used for" is more general and can refer to any purpose or function, without necessarily implying a negative action. For example, "This knife was "used to commit" the crime" versus "This knife is "used for" cutting vegetables".