while being used

USAGE SUMMARY

"while being used" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to something that is currently being used. For example, "This chair is still in good condition, despite while being used for several decades."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

He also had two receptions for 2 yards while being used as an option underneath for Sanchez.

The New York Times - Sports

Even while being used as propaganda in the Nazis' "showcase" concentration camp, "Brundibar" was revised to reflect a more defiant attitude toward tyrants.

The New York Times - Books

The footage sparked outrage after it was claimed the dolphin had overheated and died of dehydration while being used for pictures.

Independent

He was claimed off waivers by the New York Jets in 2012 and had 12 catches for 90 yards in two seasons while being used as a blocking tight end and H-back with childhood friend Mark Sanchez at quarterback.

The Guardian - Sport

A federal judge said today that a 3-year-old Thai boy detained last year while being used as a decoy in an immigrant trafficking scheme should remain in the United States.

The New York Times

After gaining powers while being used as a human guinea pig in prison, Cage adopted a flouncy yellow shirt and steel tiara to become Power Man, a cash-conscious enforcer who would save the day and then demand his fee.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

Much less noticed is the tomb of Michel Aflaq, the founder of Mr. Hussein's Baath Party, which for a while was used by American troops as a gym and barracks.

The New York Times

The laser equipment should be switched off while not being used.

Fashion and Textiles

As in, while it's being used.

Independent

He said the payroll, while smaller, was used more effectively.

The New York Times

But while Woods is used to being near the lead, Johnson was living a dream.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "while being used", ensure the context clearly indicates what or who is performing the action and what is being acted upon. This clarifies the relationship and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

A common mistake is to use "while being used" without a clear subject, leading to confusion. Always ensure the sentence structure clearly indicates who or what is using the item in question.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "while being used" functions as a temporal adverbial phrase. It modifies a verb by indicating the time during which the action occurs. Ludwig AI confirms its use in a wide range of contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

32%

News & Media

30%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "while being used" is a versatile and grammatically correct temporal adverbial phrase commonly used to specify the conditions under which an action occurs. According to Ludwig AI, its widespread applicability makes it suitable for various contexts, including scientific, news, and general writing. Understanding its function and purpose ensures clarity and precision in writing, while being mindful of potential ambiguities helps maintain effective communication. It is commonly used in Science and News & Media.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in the process of being utilized

Highlights that the item is in the middle of its use.

during its utilization

Replaces 'being used' with a more formal term, maintaining the focus on active employment.

as it is employed

Focuses on the manner of usage.

as it undergoes utilization

Similar to 'in the process of being utilized', but slightly more formal.

while undergoing employment

Highlights the state of undergoing its utilization.

in the course of its application

Emphasizes the process and context of the item's use.

during active employment

Stresses the continuous and ongoing nature of the item's utilization.

when undergoing application

Focuses on the process of applying something.

when in service

Highlights the functional state of the subject at the time of use.

whilst in operation

Similar to 'in service' but draws attention to the active state of the item.

FAQs

How can I use "while being used" in a sentence?

The phrase "while being used" indicates that something is happening during the time that something else is in operation or being utilized. For example, "The data is encrypted "while being used" by the application".

What are some alternatives to "while being used"?

Some alternatives include "during its utilization", "in the course of its application", or "when in service", depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "while being used"?

Yes, starting a sentence with "while being used" is grammatically correct, especially when introducing a dependent clause. For example, "While being used, the device should be monitored for overheating."

What is the difference between ""while being used"" and "when being used"?

"While being used" emphasizes the continuous nature of the action during the period of use, whereas "when being used" refers to a specific instance or condition during use. The former implies duration, while the latter implies a specific point in time or circumstance.