"not in use" vs "not use"

Question

"not in use" vs "not use"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Not use' is used to indicate the absence of using something, while 'not in use' is used to indicate that something is currently not being used.

Last Updated: March 21, 2024

This phrase is used to indicate that something is idle or not currently being utilized.

Examples:

The old car is not in use anymore.
The spare bedroom is not in use at the moment.
The computer is not in use because it's being repaired.
The playground equipment is not in use during the winter.
The meeting room is not in use right now.

Alternatives:

idle
unused
not being used
out of service
not operational

This phrase is used to express that something is not being utilized or employed.

Examples:

Please do not use this equipment without proper training.
I will not use this pen anymore because it's out of ink.
It's important to not use your phone while driving.
She decided not to use the old computer anymore.
The teacher asked the students to not use their phones during the exam.

Alternatives:

avoid using
refrain from using
abstain from using
not utilize
not employ

Answer 1

not in use

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to indicate that something is currently not being used.

Answer 2

not use

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to indicate the absence of using something.

"not in use" vs "not use"

not in use

not use

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