verb
Very common
using
YOO-zihng
Using (verb) means present participle of use — employing something for a purpose. Example: “She's using a new recipe tonight.”
verb
1
Present participle of use — employing something for a purpose.
"She's using a new recipe tonight."
"Using public transport saves money."
"He was using a ruler to draw straight lines."
How to use using
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe -ing form of "use," as in doing something with a tool, method, or resource.
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Word forms
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Rhymes for using
See all rhymes for using →Frequently asked questions
What does “using” mean?
The word “using” means present participle of use — employing something for a purpose. In plain terms, the -ing form of "use," as in doing something with a tool, method, or resource.
How do you pronounce “using”?
“Using” is pronounced YOO-zihng (/ˈju.zɪŋ/ in IPA).
How do you use “using” in a sentence?
Here is “using” used in a sentence: “She's using a new recipe tonight.”
What part of speech is “using”?
“Using” is a verb.
Is “using” a common word?
“Using” is a very common word in modern English.
What is the difference between 'using' and 'used'?
'Using' is the present participle — the ongoing form — as in 'She is using the computer.' 'Used' is the past tense and past participle, describing a finished action: 'She used the computer yesterday.' 'Used' also appears in 'used to,' meaning something that happened regularly in the past but no longer does.
What is the difference between 'using' and 'utilizing'?
Both mean employing something for a purpose, and 'using' is the plainer, more natural choice. 'Utilizing' sounds more formal or technical and often implies making practical use of something in a new or clever way. In everyday writing, 'using' is almost always the better and clearer option.
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