when in use

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "when in use" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to refer to the appropriate or expected time when a particular object or process should be used. For example: "The seatbelts should be worn when in use."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Drivers were often taken aback by the brakes' tendency to vibrate when in use.

The New York Times

When in use, they flip out horizontally over the ears, according to patent application No. 20020104152.

The New York Times

The findings: An Amazon Kindle emitted less than 30 microvolts per meter when in use.

The New York Times

Even more important, servers can be moved around, even when in use.

The Economist

It charges quite slowly with the charger in the box when in use – adding only 5% in about an hour.

The Guardian - Tech

When in use, the tang is gripped in adjustable jaws in the shell, or chuck, of the brace.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"These are really versatile, because they slide out when in use and slide in when not," he said.

The New York Times

The reel can't retract when in use; it stops trying to retract if the cord is obstructed.

The New York Times

The route is fully lit when in use, otherwise the LEDs are dimmed to 10 percent of their power.

The New York Times - Arts

Powertrain engineers emphasize the importance of designing an engine block that will not exhibit cylinder distortion when in use.

The New York Times

Keep in mind when making your decision, that some apps, when in use, do require additional storage".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "when in use" to clearly indicate a condition or state of functionality. This helps to avoid ambiguity in instructions or descriptions.

Common error

Ensure that the subject to which "when in use" refers is clearly identified. Avoid using the phrase in contexts where the object or system being referred to is ambiguous.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "when in use" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause by specifying a condition or time frame. As Ludwig AI explains, it indicates the appropriate or expected time for using an object or process. For example, "The device glows blue when in use."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

25%

Wiki

19%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "when in use" is a grammatically sound and highly prevalent expression, serving as an adverbial phrase that sets a specific condition for an action or state. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and wide applicability. Its function is to provide context-specific instructions, precautions, or descriptive details relevant during active operation. While it maintains a relatively neutral register, this phrase sees common usage across diverse fields like news, science, and general informational content. As many examples showcase, the expression gives clarity. For optimal usage, ensure that the subject to which it applies is clear and unambiguous.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in operation

A more concise way of expressing the state of being used.

during its use

Highlights the period that something is being used.

during operation

Focuses on the action of using something rather than the state.

while being utilized

More formal and emphasizes the process of being used.

whilst in service

Similar to "in active service" but with a slightly different tone.

in active service

Implies a more formal or official context of use.

while employed

Focuses on the purpose of the object as being employed.

under normal usage

Highlights typical or expected conditions of use.

when activated

Specifically refers to the point of starting or enabling something.

if operational

Stresses the condition of being ready for use.

FAQs

How can I use "when in use" in a sentence?

You can use "when in use" to describe the state or condition of something being actively utilized. For example, "The display illuminates "when in use"."

What's an alternative to "when in use"?

Alternatives include "during operation", "in operation", or "while being utilized", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "while in use" instead of "when in use"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "when in use" often implies a specific condition or state, whereas "while in use" emphasizes the duration of the usage. They are often interchangeable but the nuance can subtly differ.

What does "when in use" typically describe?

"When in use" commonly describes the expected behavior, precautions, or properties of a device, tool, or system during its active operational state.