English Reference
Fixed phrase

be used to

fixed phrase.
B1 Intermediate

fixed phrase.to be familiar with something because you have experienced it many times before. It means that something is no longer strange or difficult for you.

fixed phrase.to be accustomed to a state or activity through previous experience. This construction functions as a stative predicate where 'used' is an adjective followed by the preposition 'to', which requires a noun or gerund object.


SIMPLE

I am used to the cold weather here.

CONTEXTUAL

After living in the city for five years, she is used to the constant noise of traffic at night.

COMPLEX

The surgical team is used to working under extreme pressure for twelve-hour shifts without losing focus.

Usage

always followed by a noun or a verb ending in -ing, never the base form of a verb.

Teaching tip

contrast with 'used to + infinitive' (past habits); emphasize that 'be used to' describes a current state of familiarity and requires the -ing form for actions.

Pitfall
I am used to wake up early.I am used to waking up early.

the word 'to' is a preposition here, so it must be followed by a gerund (-ing) rather than an infinitive.

This entry
Level B1 · Intermediate
Updated