Which one is correct?
"Used for" or "Used to"?

TextRanch: The best way to perfect your writing.

Discover why 1,062,726 users count on TextRanch to get their English corrected!

One of our experts will correct your English.

Our experts

100% Human-Powered Editing!

Used for

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to indicate the purpose or function of something.

Use 'used for' to explain the purpose or function of something. For example, 'This knife is used for cutting vegetables.'

Examples:

  • This room is used for meetings.
  • The hammer is used for driving in nails.
  • The computer is used for work.
  • The car is used for transportation.
  • The oven is used for baking.

Alternatives:

  • utilized for
  • employed for
  • utilized in
  • employed in

Used to

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to talk about past habits or states.

Use 'used to' to describe past habits or states. For example, 'I used to play the piano when I was younger.'

Examples:

  • She used to live in New York.
  • I used to eat a lot of junk food.
  • He used to be a teacher.
  • They used to go hiking every weekend.
  • We used to have a dog.

Alternatives:

  • was accustomed to
  • was in the habit of
  • would
  • had the custom of
Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Used to' is used to talk about past habits or states, while 'used for' is used to indicate the purpose or function of something.

Last Updated: March 21, 2024

Related Comparisons

Why choose TextRanch?

Lowest prices
Up to 50% lower than other online editing sites.

Fastest Times
Our team of editors is working for you 24/7.

Qualified Editors
Native English experts for UK or US English.

Top Customer Service
We are here to help. Satisfaction guaranteed!