Which is correct:
"is used to play" or "is used to playing"?

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is used to play

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to talk about the purpose or function of an object or tool.

This phrase is used to describe the intended function or purpose of an object or tool. It indicates what the object is designed for or how it is typically used.

Examples:

  • This ball is used to play soccer.
  • The hammer is used to play music in the band.
  • The computer is used to play games.
  • The paintbrush is used to play colors on the canvas.
  • The remote control is used to play videos on the TV.

Alternatives:

  • is used for playing
  • is meant for playing
  • is designed for playing
  • is intended for playing
  • is for playing

is used to playing

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to talk about someone's habit or regular activity.

This phrase is used to describe someone's habit or regular activity. It indicates what someone is accustomed to doing or what they enjoy doing regularly.

Examples:

  • She is used to playing the piano every evening.
  • He is used to playing basketball on weekends.
  • They are used to playing video games after school.
  • I am used to playing tennis in the mornings.
  • The kids are used to playing in the park after school.

Alternatives:

  • is accustomed to playing
  • is familiar with playing
  • is in the habit of playing
  • is used to engage in playing
  • is used to participate in playing
Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Is used to play' is used to talk about the purpose or function of an object or tool, while 'is used to playing' is used to talk about someone's habit or regular activity.

Last updated: March 20, 2024

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