Use vs. Used – Which is Correct?
The phrases “use to it” and “used to it” often cause confusion among English speakers. Understanding the correct usage is essential for conveying the intended meaning accurately. “Used to it” indicates familiarity with a situation, while “use to it” is generally considered incorrect. This article will clarify the proper context for each phrase and provide examples and additional insights.
Use to it or Used to it – Which is Correct?
In standard English, “used to it” is the correct phrase. It refers to having become familiar with or accustomed to a particular situation. On the other hand, “use to it” is not considered correct and should be avoided in written and spoken English.
| Phrase | When to Use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Used to it | When indicating familiarity or comfort with a situation. | I am used to it now, so the noise doesn’t bother me. |
| Use to it | Not a correct usage. | N/A |
How to Use Used to it
To correctly use the phrase “used to it,” incorporate it in contexts where you want to express your familiarity or comfort with an experience or environment. This phrase is typically followed by a noun or gerund to clarify what the speaker is accustomed to.
Example 1: After living in the city for a year, I got used to it.
Example 2: She is used to it being noisy at night.
Example 3: They will eventually get used to it once they settle in.
What are the different forms of used to it?
The phrase “used to” can also refer to actions or states that were regularly performed in the past. For instance, “I used to play soccer” means that playing soccer was a regular activity in the past, but not anymore. The term “used to” can also be modified by an auxiliary verb to indicate different tenses, like “getting used to” for present actions of becoming familiar.
Etymology of the word used to
The term “used to” originates from the combination of “use,” meaning to be familiar with, and “to,” which denotes direction or purpose. Over time, it has become a popular expression in English to denote familiarity or habitual practice.
Practice Exercises
- After a few weeks in the new office, I finally got __________ (use to it/used to it).
- She is __________ (use to it/used to it) being the team leader now.
- They will need time to __________ (use to it/used to it) before they feel comfortable.
- I remember when I struggled, but now I feel __________ (use to it/used to it).
- He had to learn how to __________ (use to it/used to it) quickly.
Answer Key
- used to it
- used to it
- used to it
- used to it
- used to it
Used to it Synonyms
| Synonym | Definition |
|---|---|
| Accustomed to | Familiar with something through repeated exposure. |
| Familiar with | Knowledgeable about or at ease with. |
| Habituated to | Accustomed to a particular condition or practice. |
Conclusion
In summary, the phrase “used to it” is the correct form used to express familiarity or comfort with a situation. Understanding the differences between these phrases is crucial for effective communication in English.
