usage
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
the way that words and phrases are actually used by people when they speak or write.
the established manner in which a language is spoken or written within a particular community.
Simple“The dictionary provides many examples of modern English usage.”
In context“The professor noted that while the phrasing was technically grammatical, it did not align with standard academic usage in the field of linguistics.”
UsageOften used as an uncountable noun when referring to general language patterns.
PitfallThe book explains the English use. The book explains English usage.Use 'usage' when referring to the collective habits and rules of a language, rather than a single instance of using it.
Synonyms - 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
the act of using something, or the amount that it is used.
the action of using something or the fact of being used; often relates to the consumption of a resource.
Simple“The new car is designed to reduce fuel usage during long trips.”
In context“The city council implemented new regulations to monitor industrial water usage during the peak of the summer drought.”
UsageCommonly found in technical or official contexts regarding resources like water or electricity.
SynonymsAntonymsdisuseneglect - 03 C1 Advanced
the way you treat a person or a thing.
the manner of treating a person or thing; often used in legal or formal contexts regarding fair or unfair treatment.
Simple“The prisoners complained about their harsh usage by the guards.”
In context“The humanitarian report detailed the rough usage of displaced civilians by the local militia forces during the conflict.”
UsageUsually modified by an adjective like 'fair', 'harsh', or 'rough'.
Usage current usage
From Middle English usage, from Anglo-Norman and Old French usage.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.