used to something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "used to something" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that someone has become accustomed to a particular situation or condition over time. Example: "After living in the city for several years, I have become used to the noise and hustle of urban life."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

They were used to something else".

The New York Times - Sports

Once I get used to something, it stops being overwhelming.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

You always have to get used to something.

The Guardian

But when they get used to something they respond accordingly.

The New York Times

The water tasted fine, if a little dry; I'm used to something with more minerals.

The New York Times - Magazine

"When we get used to something, it starts to lose a little of its brightness.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

Did she used to do something else?

The New York Times

Hugging used to mean something".

The New York Times - Style

"It used to mean something.

The New York Times - Sports

But it used to be something.

The New York Times

"This place used to be something".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "used to something", ensure the context clearly indicates that the subject has become accustomed to the specified situation, object, or activity over a period of time. This helps avoid ambiguity and ensures clarity in your writing.

Common error

Avoid confusing "used to something" (being accustomed to) with "use something" (the act of employing something). Incorrect usage can significantly alter the intended meaning of your sentence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "used to something" functions as an adjectival phrase, indicating a state of being accustomed or habituated to a particular condition, environment, or object. Ludwig examples show its common usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "used to something" is a common and grammatically correct way to express that someone has become accustomed to something. Ludwig AI confirms its broad applicability. To ensure clarity, differentiate it from "used to do something" (a past habit) and avoid the incorrect form "use to something". As Ludwig's examples demonstrate, this phrase is versatile and can be used in various contexts, from news and media to personal narratives. By following these guidelines, you can confidently and accurately use "used to something" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

accustomed to something

A formal alternative, emphasizing a state of being familiar and comfortable with something.

familiar with something

Indicates a good understanding or knowledge of something, rather than just being used to it.

habituated to something

Suggests a process of becoming accustomed, often in a scientific or psychological context.

conditioned to something

Implies a learned response or adaptation to something, often through repeated exposure.

inured to something

Suggests becoming hardened or less sensitive to something, often something unpleasant.

no stranger to something

Means that someone is not unfamiliar with something, implying prior experience.

at ease with something

Focuses on comfort and lack of difficulty with something.

conversant with something

Implies a level of knowledge and ability to discuss something intelligently.

acquainted with something

Indicates a casual or introductory level of familiarity.

experienced with something

Highlights having practical knowledge or skill gained from doing, seeing, or feeling something.

FAQs

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

Use "used to something" to describe a state of being familiar or accustomed to something through repeated experience. For example, "I am "used to the noise" of the city now".

What's the difference between "used to something" and "used to do something"?

"Used to something" describes being accustomed to a noun or gerund (e.g., "I'm used to the cold"), while "used to do something" describes a past habit (e.g., "I used to play the piano").

What can I say instead of "used to something"?

Alternatives include "accustomed to something", "familiar with something", or "habituated to something", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "I'm use to something" instead of "I'm used to something"?

No, "I'm use to something" is grammatically incorrect. The correct form is "I'm "used to something"", where "used" is the past participle of the verb "use" and functions as an adjective describing your state.