widely used

USAGE SUMMARY

'widely used' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is very popular or accepted by many people. For example, "The internet is a widely used tool for communication and research."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It remains widely used.

The New York Times

Social media is widely used.

The New Yorker

Coiled basketry was widely used.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Air evacuation is widely used.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Tactical voting was widely used.

The Guardian - Opinion

Both drugs are widely used.

The New York Times

Unplasticized polyvinyl chloride pipe is widely used.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Synthetic cocaine substitutes were later widely used.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Pheromones are widely used to promote aggregation.

Encyclopedia Britannica

English, taught in schools, is widely used.

Encyclopedia Britannica

English and Spanish are also widely used.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "widely used", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being used and by whom. For instance, specify the technology, method, or term being described.

Common error

Do not assume that if something is "widely used" in one region or context, it is universally so. Always provide specific context to avoid misleading implications.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "widely used" functions as an adjective modifying a noun. It describes something that is prevalent and employed by many. Ludwig AI confirms that this is a standard and accepted usage pattern, as demonstrated in the provided examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Encyclopedias

35%

News & Media

26%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

11%

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "widely used" is a grammatically sound and frequently encountered adjectival phrase. Ludwig AI confirms it is suitable for describing the prevalence or commonality of a method, tool, or concept. Analysis of various sources reveals its consistent usage across encyclopedias, news media, and scientific literature. Its neutral register makes it adaptable to diverse writing styles. To enhance clarity, always specify the context in which something is "widely used" to avoid overgeneralizations. Alternatives such as "commonly employed" or "extensively applied" can provide nuanced variations. The phrase is versatile and valuable for conveying the widespread adoption of a particular subject.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in widespread use

A more descriptive and less concise version, retaining the core meaning.

commonly employed

Emphasizes the routine or habitual nature of the use.

extensively applied

Focuses on the breadth and scope of the application.

generally accepted

Highlights the widespread agreement or approval of its use.

broadly adopted

Indicates a widespread acceptance and integration into common practice.

frequently utilized

Stresses the high number of times it is put to use.

prevalently practiced

Suggests a widespread and established custom or method.

universally recognised

Highlights that virtually everyone knows about or acknowledges it.

routinely implemented

Implies that it is a standard or normal part of a process.

in common usage

Emphasizes that it is a typical or standard way of doing something.

FAQs

How can I use "widely used" in a sentence?

You can use "widely used" to describe something that is common or popular. For example, "Social media is a "widely used" tool for communication."

What's a good alternative to "widely used"?

Alternatives to "widely used" include "commonly employed", "extensively applied", or "generally accepted", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "widely use" instead of "widely used"?

No, "widely use" is grammatically incorrect. The correct form is "widely used", where "used" acts as a past participle modifying the noun.

What is the difference between "widely used" and "commonly used"?

While both phrases are similar, "widely used" implies a broad reach or distribution, whereas "commonly used" suggests habitual or frequent use. The best option depends on the specific context.