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Hans51 Posted 14 years ago
Grammar

"Be used for -ing" VS. "Be used to V"

"It is used to V" VS. "It is used for -ing". This question is very similar to a question about 'be designed for' and 'be designed to'. I think either way is interchangeable, but I am not sure of it. For example, 'This device is used to solve the problem' or 'This device is used for solving the problem.' How do native English speakers distinguish between them? Thank you so much for your time and help as usual which I cannot forget in my life.
  

Top answer

There is not much to distinguish. Use '+ infinite' for more direct writing.

— Mister Micawber

  • There is not much to distinguish.
  • Use '+ infinite' for more direct writing.
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3 Answers
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There is not much to distinguish. Use '+ infinite' for more direct writing.
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Thank you, so you mean both are okay to use and interchangeable? But you recommend me to use 'to V' for more direct writing, or it is mandatory for it?
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Generally, 'used for doing' is not very good. Use it judiciously.
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