using

using — verb

1. the form of the verb 'use' that ends in -ing, used to describe an action that is

1.動詞及物 / 不及物A2
釋義

the form of the verb 'use' that ends in -ing, used to describe an action that is happening at the same time as the main verb, or to talk about employing something as a tool or method in a general way.

例句

Dahlia is using her new tablet to take notes during biology class.

progressive: be + using (action in progress now)

Using a paper map can be hard when you are in an unfamiliar city.

gerund as subject: Using + noun phrase

文法句型

be + using + noun phrase (progressive)

using + noun phrase (gerund as subject or object)

using + noun phrase, main clause (participial phrase)

用法筆記

Distinguish the progressive form ('She is using the computer now') from the gerund form ('Using the computer helps her work faster'). The progressive focuses on an action in progress; the gerund treats the action as a concept or activity. In informal speech, 'using' is commonly shortened in contractions: 'she's using', 'they're using'.

常見錯誤

❌I am use the phone right now.
✅I am using the phone right now.
💡After 'am / is / are,' the main verb must take the -ing form to make the present continuous.
❌She enjoyed use the new software.
✅She enjoyed using the new software.
💡After verbs like 'enjoy', 'finish', 'practise', the following verb must be the -ing form (gerund), not the base form.