Usage vs Use
What’s the difference between them?
Usage
Meaning:
noun; the action or manner of employing something; the purpose for which something is used.
Examples:
1. The usage of the printer is restricted to faculty and staff.
2. I need to review the usage terms and conditions before I agree.
3. Usage of the gym's facilities is included in the membership fee.
Use
Meaning:
verb; to employ something for a purpose; to take or consume (something) for a practical purpose.
Examples:
1. Use this coupon to get 10% off your purchase.
2. Please use the correct form when submitting your application.
3. I'm going to use my vacation days to take a trip.
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Usage
1. Utilization
2. Application
3. Implementation
4. Operation
1. Misuse
2. Neglect
3. Disregard
4. Inactivity
Use
1. Utilize
2. Employ
3. Put into service
4. Operate
5. Draw upon
1. Discard
2. Employ
3. Abstain
4. Utilize
5. Refrain from
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Usage", "Use".
1. The primary difference between the two is that Usage is a noun, while Use is a verb.
2. Mnemonic phrase: 'Use it, don't just talk about Usage.'
3. When referring to the act of doing something, use the verb form 'use'; when talking about the customary manner of doing something, use the noun form 'usage.'
Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words
Frequently asked questions
In what situations should the first word be used?
The word 'usage' should be used when referring to a particular way of using a language or a tool. It typically implies a phrase or a sentence that is accepted as proper or correct. For example, 'The correct usage of the word ‘their’ is ‘they’re’.'
When is the appropriate context for using the second word?
The word 'use' is used when referring to the action of a person, object, or concept. For example, 'He used the hammer to drive a nail into the wall.'
Do the two words share the same pronunciation?
No, the two words do not share the same pronunciation. The word 'usage' is pronounced 'yu-saj', while the word 'use' is pronounced 'yuz'.
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
Common mistakes people make when using these words is confusing 'usage' with 'use' or using either word in the wrong context. For example, saying 'My use of the hammer was poor' instead of 'My usage of the hammer was poor'.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. The ________ of pesticides in agriculture has raised concerns among environmentalists.
2. Before you start the machine, please read the manual to understand its proper ________.
3. We should ________ renewable resources to reduce our carbon footprint.
4. He didnt know how to ________ the new software installed on his computer.
5. The library allows patrons to ________ the computers for a maximum of two hours per day.
6. The ________ of certain words varies from one region to another.
1. Usage
Explanation: This sentence refers to the manner or action of employing pesticides, fitting the definition of usage.
2. Usage
Explanation: Here, were talking about the manner in which the machine should be employed, hence usage is the appropriate word.
3. Use
Explanation: This sentence is talking about employing renewable resources for a purpose, fitting the verb form use.
4. Use
Explanation: The sentence refers to employing or operating software, making the verb use the right choice.
5. Use
Explanation: In this context, the sentence is referring to the act of employing the computers for a purpose, making use appropriate.
6. Usage
Explanation: This sentence talks about the manner in which certain words are employed in different regions, so usage fits the context.
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List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.