using

using — verb

1. the form of the verb 'use' that ends in -ing, used to describe an action that is

1.verbtransitive / intransitiveA2
Definition

the form of the verb 'use' that ends in -ing, used to describe an action that is happening at the same time as the main verb, or to talk about employing something as a tool or method in a general way.

Example

Dahlia is using her new tablet to take notes during biology class.

progressive: be + using (action in progress now)

Using a paper map can be hard when you are in an unfamiliar city.

gerund as subject: Using + noun phrase

Common collocations
  • using a tool
  • using an app
  • using a method
  • using data
  • using resources

Grammar Patterns

be + using + noun phrase (progressive)

using + noun phrase (gerund as subject or object)

using + noun phrase, main clause (participial phrase)

Usage Note

Distinguish the progressive form ('She is using the computer now') from the gerund form ('Using the computer helps her work faster'). The progressive focuses on an action in progress; the gerund treats the action as a concept or activity. In informal speech, 'using' is commonly shortened in contractions: 'she's using', 'they're using'.

Common Mistakes

I am use the phone right now.
I am using the phone right now.
After 'am / is / are,' the main verb must take the -ing form to make the present continuous.
She enjoyed use the new software.
She enjoyed using the new software.
After verbs like 'enjoy', 'finish', 'practise', the following verb must be the -ing form (gerund), not the base form.

Word family

Synonym discussion

Sense: verb/1

'Using' is the most general and common word for putting something into service for a purpose. 'Utilizing' suggests making practical or effective use of something, often in a way that finds a purpose for a resource that might otherwise be wasted (e.g., 'utilizing leftover fabric to make bags'). 'Employing' is more formal and often implies using a method, technique, or person for a specific task ('employing a new teaching strategy'). 'Applying' focuses on putting a rule, principle, or technique into practice ('applying the formula to solve the problem'). 'Operating' is specific to running machines or systems ('operating a forklift'). In everyday speech, 'using' is almost always the right choice; the other options sound more technical or formal.

utilizingemployingapplyingoperating

Common collocations

Nouns

  • method of using
  • way of using
  • experience of using
  • instruction for using

Adverbs

  • currently using
  • actively using
  • regularly using
  • constantly using
  • carefully using

Phrases

  • by using
  • while using
  • instead of using
  • without using

Prepositions

  • using for
  • using in
  • using with
  • using by

Etymology

LatinFrenchEnglish

'Using' comes from the verb 'use', which traces back through Middle English 'usen', from Old French 'user' ('to use, employ, practice'), and ultimately from Latin 'uti' ('to use, make use of, enjoy'). The -ing suffix is a Germanic inflection that forms the present participle and gerund.