Usage-Use | Commonly Confused Words
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Usage vs. Use

Usage

/ˈjuːsɪdʒ/
The way in which a word or phrase is used in speech or writing

Examples:

For the time being everyone borrowed that comical usage.His unusual usage of the tool amazed everyone.The program tracks the usage of energy in real-time.

Synonyms:

Antonyms:

Use

/juːz/
To apply or employ something for a purpose

Examples:

Nothing uses me to it.I used the long string to help me.To get things done, stimulate competition using the desire to excel.

Synonyms:

Antonyms:

Ways to tell them apart:

etymology
  • Usage refers to the manner in which a word, phrase, or item is used in a particular context or the extent to which something is used.
  • Use is more general and can refer to the act of employing something for a particular purpose.
  • Think of usage as the style or correctness of how something is used, whereas use is about the action of using it.
  • If youre talking about rules or patterns in language, youre likely referring to usage.
  • In everyday actions or tools, use is the more appropriate term.
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