Definition of “Used To”
“Used to” is a phrase primarily used to indicate a past habit, state, or action that no longer occurs. It is commonly employed in English grammar to describe something that was regularly done or a condition that existed in the past but has since changed.
Synonyms for “Used To”
Depending on the context, “used to” can have various synonyms:
Strongest Matches (Closest in Meaning)
- Accustomed to
- Familiar with
- Adapted to
- Comfortable with
- In the habit of
Strong Matches
- Conditioned to
- Trained to
- Acquainted with
- Habituated to
- Seasoned to
Weak Matches
- Tolerant of
- Endured
- Adjusted to
- Learned to
- Experienced in
Example Sentences Using “Used To”
- Habitual Action in the Past:
- I used to play basketball every weekend, but I stopped after my injury.
- She used to wake up early for school, but now she sleeps in late.
- Past States or Conditions:
- There used to be a grocery store on this street, but it closed last year.
- We used to live in New York before moving to California.
- Being Accustomed to Something (Different Usage – Without “Did”)
- I am used to waking up early for work.
- She is used to cold weather after living in Canada for ten years.
Contextual Usage of “Used To”
Grammar and Sentence Structure
- Affirmative Sentences:
- I used to read a lot of books as a child.
- Negative Sentences:
- I didn’t use to like spicy food, but now I do.
- Interrogative Sentences (Questions):
- Did you use to watch cartoons when you were young?
Common Mistakes in Usage
❌ Incorrect: I use to go jogging every morning.
✅ Correct: I used to go jogging every morning.
❌ Incorrect: Did you used to live here?
✅ Correct: Did you use to live here?
Related Words and Phrases
- Get used to → Meaning: Becoming familiar with something new (e.g., He is getting used to his new job.)
- Be used to → Meaning: Already familiar with something (e.g., I am used to waking up early.)
- Formerly → Meaning: In the past, before now
- Previously → Meaning: Before a certain time
Additional Information
- “Used to” is always followed by the base form of the verb (used to + verb).
- It is different from “be used to,” which is followed by a noun or gerund (verb + ing).
Disclaimer
This page is intended for educational and informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, variations in language usage and evolving grammar rules may lead to different interpretations.
