we started using

USAGE SUMMARY

"we started using" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that a group of people began to use or do, usually in the past tense. Example: We started using the new database software last week, and it's already made our work much more efficient.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Once we started using the Islamic arguments, they didn't attack us as much".

The New York Times

"We started using ropes at this point, anchoring them above us to two extra skis we'd driven into the ice.

Los Angeles Times

So we started using fish gelatin.

The New York Times - Magazine

"We started using it in November," he says.

The Guardian - Tech

About a year ago we started using video conferencing for group meetings.

The New York Times

"Since we started using clean water, the health of my children has drastically changed.

The Guardian

"Eventually we started using the shower again, but we were nervous about it to begin with.

The Guardian

The printing press did the same for precious metals: we started using paper notes instead.

The Guardian - Opinion

When we started using vocoder four years ago, it was like angels' voices, not robots'.

The Guardian

We started using slogans like "VideoStar, the Network Management Company" in our print and presentation materials.

Harvard Business Review

It's easy to forget just how recently we started using fossil fuels in large amounts.

MIT Technology Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a shift in methodology or tools, use "we started using" to clearly indicate when the change occurred. Provide context to explain the reasons behind the transition for better clarity.

Common error

Ensure the context clearly specifies when "we started using" something. Vague references like 'recently' or 'some time ago' can confuse the reader. Use specific dates or periods for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we started using" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the commencement of utilizing something. It clearly articulates the action of beginning to use a specific tool, method, or technology. Ludwig confirms the correctness of this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

38%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "we started using" is a versatile and frequently used expression indicating the initiation of utilizing a particular tool, method, or technology. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and commonly employed across diverse contexts, particularly in news media and scientific publications. When using this phrase, it is crucial to provide clear context regarding the timing and reasons for the transition. Alternatives like ""we began to utilize"" or ""we commenced employing"" can be used to adjust the formality. Remember to avoid ambiguity by providing specific time references and clearly articulating the purpose of the new usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we have started to use

Adds the present perfect tense to indicate an action that began in the past and continues to the present.

we began to utilize

Replaces 'started' with 'began' and 'using' with 'utilize', suggesting a more formal tone.

we commenced employing

Uses 'commenced' and 'employing', which are more formal alternatives to 'started' and 'using'.

we initiated the use of

Transforms the phrase into a noun-based structure, emphasizing the action of initiating.

we have implemented

Implies a more structured and deliberate introduction of something new.

we incorporated

Implies that the thing being used has become an integral part of a process or system.

we adopted the practice of

Focuses on the adoption of a practice rather than simply starting to use something.

we introduced

Highlights the act of bringing something new into use.

we transitioned to

Emphasizes a shift from one thing or method to another.

we turned to using

Suggests a shift or change in approach, implying a previous method was abandoned.

FAQs

How can I use "we started using" in a sentence?

You can use "we started using" to indicate the beginning of the adoption or utilization of a tool, method, or technology. For example, "We started using the new software last quarter to improve efficiency."

What are some alternatives to "we started using"?

Alternatives include "we began to utilize", "we commenced employing", or "we initiated the use of", depending on the desired level of formality.

Is it correct to say "we have started using" instead of "we started using"?

Both are grammatically correct, but "we started using" is simple past tense, indicating a completed action, while "we have started using" is present perfect, suggesting the action began in the past and may continue to the present. The choice depends on the intended nuance.

What's the difference between "we started using" and "we implemented"?

"We started using" simply indicates the beginning of use. "We implemented" implies a more structured, planned introduction. For example, "We started using a new CRM" versus "We implemented a new CRM system after careful planning."