Meaning & use
using
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“using” is a form of “use”. See that entry for the full set of meanings.
Meanings
verbtransitive
The -ing form of use: employing something to do a job or reach a result.
Grammar: Takes an object: she is using a laptop.
Patterns
- using something
- using something to do something
- using something for something
She is using a spreadsheet to track her spending.
Using a map, we found the trail quickly.
verbtransitivedisapproving
Taking advantage of a person unfairly for your own benefit.
Grammar: Takes a person as object, and is disapproving: he is using her.
Patterns
- using someone
I felt he was only using me to get a job.
Stop using your little brother to do your chores.
verbtransitive
Consuming or taking up an amount of something, such as fuel or time.
Grammar: Takes an object that is a resource: using too much water.
Patterns
- using up something
This old heater is using a lot of electricity.
We are using more paper than we need.
Common combinations
- using a tool
- He is good at using a power drill.
- using force
- They opened the door without using force.
- using up
- You are using up all the hot water.
- by using
- You can save time by using templates.
Synonyms and how they differ
- employing
- More formal and often about methods or workers.
- utilizing
- A formal, wordier choice that stresses making practical use of something.
- exploiting
- Suggests using someone or something unfairly or to the fullest, often with a negative tone.
Opposites
Word family
Commonly confused: using or used to?
using vs used to
Used to + verb describes a past habit; using is the -ing form of the action of use.
Practice
The cook saved time by ___ a food processor instead of chopping by hand.
Choose one answer.
After the preposition by, an -ing form is needed: by using. The other forms cannot follow by.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “using”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.