The uses of USE (Intermediateupperintermediate)

We often find a Word or part of a word applied in different ways. This is called word families. Word families can help you to maximize your vocabulary and expression through grouping. Use is a small, common word which has many family members how many variants can you think of?

The USE family spidogram: USUALLY

1 PRESENT HABIT

USED TO
2 PAST HABIT

USEFUL USELESS

6
ADJECTIVES

USE

3 ADAPTA TION

a) GET USED TO

b) BE USED TO
5 VERB 4 NOUN

TO USE (IUZZ)

USE (IUSS)

Numbers 1&2 are opposites in time: Nowadays I usually run and cycle for exercise (this is my chosen, preferred exercise habit). When I was younger, I used to play rugby (this is finished).

Number 3 gives the listener information about a process of adaptation to something the speaker is either experiencing (in process) or has experienced (complete): A) to get used to: He has a new job as a delivery driver he is getting used to waking up early / the early morning starts and spending a lot of time driving. Here the object is in the process of adaptation to his new situation. The construction of this expression is normally: Subject + to be + getting + used to + present participle or noun clause B) to be used to: How is your new job? Fine after four weeks Im used to waking up early / the early morning starts and spending a lot of time driving Here the 2nd speaker has completed the process of adaptation to his new situation. The construction of this expression is normally: Subject + to be + used to + present participle or noun clause Number 4: we often see this with instructions for tools, devices, appliances and toys: Toy: For indoor USE only / For outdoor USE only Tool: Warning: Incorrect USE may lead to injuries For professional USE only Number 5: This is a common, simple verb: USE with care USE ibuprofen for the treatment of aches and pains Im going to USE this screwdriver to open this pot of paint NB: the difference in pronunciation between noun and verb is the difference between SS and ZZ. Number 6: opposite adjectives: Whereas computers are very USEFUL devices they make life simpler , the majority of administration civil servants are USELESS as they make life more complicated and cost the taxpayer fortunes. Any questions, comments or ideas, please email me at: jon@2tribes.es