used to guide

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "used to guide" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to something that serves as a reference or direction for a particular purpose or action. Example: "The manual is used to guide new employees through the onboarding process."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Markings and details that used to guide us are gone.

The New York Times

Fingerprint algorithms can be used to guide diversity.

Annual Reports in Computational Chemistry

Fluoroscopy and transesophageal echocardiography were used to guide device placement.

American Heart Journal

A numerical rating scale (NRS) was used to guide analgesia.

Pain Management Nursing

Computation is increasingly used to guide protein therapeutic designs.

Drug Discovery Today: Technologies

The slender filaments used to guide rockets hung from buildings and power lines.

The New York Times

In the workplace, the code can be used to guide young and experienced researchers alike.

The Guardian

By law, the resolution can only be used to guide the board - it is not binding.

The Guardian - Business

Tape is traditionally used to guide or block off paint application.

The New York Times - Arts

The Akaike Information Criterion (AIC 41 was used to guide model selection.

Nature

With further improvements, the technique could one day be used to guide therapy, the authors say.

Nature

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "used to guide", ensure the subject clearly indicates what is being guided. For example, "Data analysis was "used to guide" our marketing strategy."

Common error

Avoid using ""used to guide"" when the subject doesn't actually influence or direct. For instance, avoid saying 'The weather was "used to guide" our trip,' when you simply reacted to it. Instead, use 'We checked the weather forecast to plan our trip'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "used to guide" functions as an infinitive of purpose, indicating the reason or intention behind an action. As Ludwig AI shows, it is commonly employed to describe the guiding principles or methodologies in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "used to guide" is a versatile phrase employed to express the purpose or rationale behind a particular action or decision. As Ludwig AI confirms, its grammatical status is correct and it enjoys widespread usage across various domains, especially in science, news, and formal business contexts. While perfectly appropriate in most situations, writers should ensure clarity by explicitly stating what exactly is being guided. Although alternatives exist, "used to guide" remains a concise and effective choice for conveying direction and influence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

meant to direct

Focuses on the intention or design behind the guidance.

intended to lead

Highlights the purpose of guiding someone towards a specific direction or outcome.

served to orient

Emphasizes the function of providing a sense of direction or understanding.

helped to navigate

Suggests assistance in overcoming obstacles or complexities.

instrumental in steering

Implies a crucial role in influencing or controlling a process or decision.

employed to influence

Highlights the active use of something to have an effect on someone or something.

designed to advise

Focuses on the intentional creation of something to offer guidance or recommendations.

worked to inform

Emphasizes the action of providing knowledge or insight to shape understanding.

acted as a compass for

Presents something as a reliable source of direction, similar to a compass.

provided a framework for

Highlights the establishment of a structured set of guidelines or principles.

FAQs

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

You can use "used to guide" to show that something was utilized to influence a process or decision. For example: "The research data was "used to guide" the development of the new product."

What are some alternatives to "used to guide"?

Alternatives include "meant to direct", "intended to lead", or "served to orient", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "was used for guiding" instead of "used to guide"?

While "was used for guiding" is grammatically correct, "used to guide" is often more concise and direct. Both can be appropriate depending on the context, but "used to guide" typically implies a more intentional or designed purpose.

Can "used to guide" be applied in informal contexts?

Yes, "used to guide" is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, in very informal settings, simpler phrases like "helped with" or "gave direction" might be more natural.