46 Sentences With Used: From Beginner To Expert

Here we will learn how to naturally write and say sentences with used, with over 40 examples, from beginner to business English! Improve your grammar and vocabulary accuracy today! Use these examples as models – repeat them all out loud.

Sentences with used

Let’s practice 10 sentences with used in simple English:

I used a pencil to write my name on the paper.
Lee used his phone to call his friend.
She used a key to open the door.
They used a map to find their way to the museum.
We used our hands to make a sandcastle on the beach.
My mom used a knife to cut the vegetables for dinner.
The teacher used a book to explain the lesson.
Pablo used his imagination to come up with a story.
Lucy used a brush to paint the picture.
They used a rope to climb up the cliff.

Used meaning: Let’s define it

Before we jump into our sentences with used, let’s make sure we understand the main meanings of this word. Firstly, it acts as a verb. Today we will mainly focus on the past tense usage. It is also used as an adjective, so let’s have a look:

Used verb

Here is a brief explanation of used in the verb form.

To operate a tool or device
To use something means to employ it for a particular purpose, or to take advantage of it in some way.
It is often used to describe actions or behaviors that involve utilizing or interacting with something in a specific way. See the below examples.

“I used a hammer to drive the nail into the wall.”
“She used her phone to look up directions to the restaurant.”
“We used to play together when we were kids.”

Adjective used

Here is a brief explanation of used in the adjective form.

When “used” is employed as an adjective, it means that something has been previously owned or utilized by someone else.
It suggests that the item may not be brand new, or may have some wear and tear from prior use.
Second hand is a great used synonym. I love the second-hand store!

I bought a used car from a dealership.
The used bookstore had a great selection of classic novels.
She wore a used dress to the party, but nobody could tell it wasn’t brand new.

Sentences with used: Intermediate English

How did you find those simple English examples? If they were not challenging enough for you, have a go at these 10 sentences with used in intermediate-level English. Notice here the addition of adjectives.

William used a heavy backpack to carry his school books.
Emma used a sharp knife to cut the apples for the pie.
Olivia used a warm blanket to keep herself cozy on the couch.
Liam used a small net to catch fish in the pond.
Ava used a big hammer to fix the fence in the backyard.
Charlotte used a clean cloth to wipe the table after dinner.
Ethan used a colorful paintbrush to create a picture of a flower.
My coworker used her car to drive to the beach with her friends.
Benjamin used a long ladder to reach the top of the tree.
Harriet used a soft towel to dry her hair after a shower.

Used in a sentence

Now let us try some more sophisticated sentences with used. Here we see more challenging sentence structures. Can you find any adverbs in these sentences?

After a long day at work, James used a fragrant bubble bath to soothe his tired muscles.
Maria used a cunning strategy to win the game of chess against her opponent.
Nathan used a meticulously crafted proposal to secure funding for his startup. It totally worked!
Despite the rain, Olivia used a determined stride to complete the marathon. It took her a while, but she did it.
Jonathan used a deft touch to paint the intricate details of the portrait.
Rachel used an intricately designed spreadsheet to manage the finances of the company.
Robert used a distinctly British accent to charm his new colleagues.
Julia used a beautifully crafted poem to express her feelings of love and longing.
Despite the setbacks, Alex used a persistent attitude to succeed in his business ventures.
Amanda used a carefully selected ensemble to make a stunning entrance at the gala.

Sentences with used: Business English

So far we have gone from beginner to advanced level English. To complement those last advanced sentences, how about looking at 10 sentences with used, focusing on business English

The company used data analytics, as recommended by their data scientist, Sarah, to identify potential customers and increase sales.
The project manager, John, used agile methodology to deliver the project ahead of schedule.
The team used brainstorming sessions, led by their innovation expert, Mr. Kline, to come up with creative ideas for the new product launch.
The consultant, David Mathews, used a comprehensive analysis to identify inefficiencies in the supply chain.
The CEO, Michael, used strategic planning to expand the business into new markets.
The sales team, under the leadership of their manager, Rachel, used persuasive techniques to close deals with clients.
The finance department, with the guidance of their financial advisor, Mark, used financial modeling to forecast revenue for the upcoming quarter.
The HR department used employee feedback, gathered through their employee engagement survey, to improve the company’s training program.
The marketing team used social media platforms, including Instagram and Twitter, to increase brand awareness.
The IT department used cutting-edge technology, recommended by their tech expert, James, to develop a new software application.

Used synonym: Get used to more vocab!

We just covered over 40 examples of used in a sentence. But, it is always useful to be growing our English vocabulary. Knowing a used synonym or two would not be the worst idea in the world! I always tell my students in class to look up a few synonyms for each new word they encounter. It can not only help them understand the original word more deeply, but also boost their comprehension.

Here are 6 synonyms for “used,” along with their definitions and example sentences:

Other words for used	Synonym meaning	Synonym example
Used synonym 1: Secondhand	Previously owned or used by another person	I bought a secondhand bicycle from a thrift store
Used synonym 2: Worn	Showing the effects of long-term use or wear	The couch in the waiting room was worn and faded from years of use
Used synonym 3: Utilized	Put to practical use or make use of	We utilized a spreadsheet to organize our data
Used synonym 4: Employed	Use or make use of something for a particular purpose	The chef employed various spices and herbs to create a flavorful dish
Used synonym 5: Exploited	Make full use of and derive benefit from something. Also has another, very negative conotation.	The company exploited new technology to increase its profits
Used synonym 6: Operated	To use or work a machine or tool	Nathan operated the lawnmower with skill

Practice using all these other words for used!

When to use “used” in a sentence?

We have looked at incorporating used in a sentence, but now let’s specifically think about when to use it. We use the word “used” in a sentence when we want to describe an action that involves employing or interacting with something in a particular way. For example, we might say “I used a hammer to fix the shelf” to describe the action of utilizing a tool to complete a task.

“Used” can also be used as an adjective to describe an item that has been previously owned or utilized by someone else, suggesting that it may not be brand new or in perfect condition. For English language students, it is important to understand the different ways in which “used” can be used, as it is a common verb and adjective in everyday communication. Use it when:

You want to describe something that is secondhand.
You want to describe utilizing something

Sentences with Used: From beginner to high-level!

Today we have looked at over 46 sentences with used. They have ranged from simple English right up to Business English. I hope you were able to see the variation and progression of the language used. Along with that, we have clearly defined the word used, and also looked at not one used synonym, but 5! My final piece of advice on learning the word used: read, say, and write it as much as you can. If you do these 3 things repeatedly, it can really help you remember how to use the word!