Understanding the Use of 'Used to' vs. 'Be Used to' in English

Learning English can be like solving a puzzle. Some pieces look similar, but they don't fit the same way. Two of these puzzle pieces are 'used to' and 'be used to'. Today, we will learn how they are different and how to use them correctly.

What Does 'Used to' Mean?

'Used to' talks about habits or actions that happened in the past but do not happen now. Think of it like a memory book — things you did before, but no more.

Examples:

1. I used to play soccer every day. (I played soccer in the past, but I don't play every day now.)
2. She used to live in London. (She lived in London before, but not now.)
3. They used to eat dinner at 6 PM. (They ate dinner at 6 PM in the past, but not anymore.)

Incorrect Usage:

1. I use to play soccer every day.
2. She use to live in London.
3. They use to eat dinner at 6 PM.

Correct Usage:

1. I used to play soccer every day.
2. She used to live in London.
3. They used to eat dinner at 6 PM.

Why? 'Used to' always stays the same, no matter what subject you use (I, you, he, she, etc.).

What Does 'Be Used to' Mean?

'Be used to' is different. It means you are familiar with something or comfortable with it. Imagine trying a new food. At first, it's strange, but after eating it many times, you are 'used to' it.

Examples:

1. I am used to waking up early. (Waking up early is normal for me now.)
2. She is used to the cold weather. (Cold weather is normal for her now.)
3. They are used to working late. (Working late is normal for them now.)

Incorrect Usage:

1. I used to waking up early.
2. She used to the cold weather.
3. They used to working late.

Correct Usage:

1. I am used to waking up early.
2. She is used to the cold weather.
3. They are used to working late.

Why? 'Be used to' needs a form of 'be' (am, is, are, was, were) before 'used to'.

Comparison Table

Here is a simple table to help you see the difference between 'used to' and 'be used to'.

How to Use 'Used to' and 'Be Used to'

Steps for 'Used to':

1. Think about the past.
2. Remember what you did regularly.
3. Use 'used to' + base verb.

Steps for 'Be Used to':

1. Think about something you are familiar with now.
2. Use a form of 'be' (am, is, are) + 'used to'.
3. Add a noun or a verb with -ing.

Common Mistakes

• Wrong: I used to playing piano.

• Right: I used to play piano.

• Why: 'Used to' must be followed by the base verb (play).

• Wrong: I am use to the noise.

• Right: I am used to the noise.

• Why: 'Used to' must have a 'd' at the end.

• Wrong: She is used to work hard.

• Right: She is used to working hard.

• Why: After 'be used to', use a noun or a verb with -ing.

Quick Summary / Cheat Sheet

• 'Used to' = past habits/actions (e.g., I used to run).
• 'Be used to' = familiar now (e.g., I am used to running).
• 'Used to' doesn't change (no 'am', 'is', 'are').
• 'Be used to' needs 'am', 'is', 'are'.
• After 'be used to', use a noun or verb with -ing.

FAQ

Q1: Can I use 'used to' for present actions?

• A1: No, 'used to' is only for past actions or habits.

Q2: Do I need to add 'to' after 'be used to'?

• A2: Yes, always use 'to' after 'be used to'.

Q3: Can I say "I used to be used to"?

• A3: Yes, if talking about past familiarity. Example: "I used to be used to the noise, but not anymore."

Q4: How can I practice these expressions?

• A4: Use Blindspot to practice writing and find grammar blind spots in your sentences.

Learning these expressions takes practice. Remember, English is like a puzzle, and with each piece you learn, the picture becomes clearer. Happy learning!