usage
/ˈjuːsɪdʒ
/noun [mass noun]
1The action of using something or the fact of being used: a survey of water usage the usage of equipment...
- The high level of car usage and the fact the number of large trucks has never been greater also acts as a disincentive to switch to pedal power.
- Finally, there must be a charge on sewage and water based on usage.
- This resulted in reduced water usage and a significant increase in recycling.
Synonyms
utilization, use, employment, consumption, operation, manipulation, running, handling
1.1The way in which a word or phrase is normally and correctly used: [count noun]: there are various derivative usages...
- In everyday, non-technical usage the words have much the same meaning.
- In general usage, it is a word associated with emphasis, significance, tension, and strain.
- This usage of the word ‘primitive’ is now much less common and no longer has derogatory implications.
Synonyms
phraseology, phrasing, diction, parlance, idiom, choice of words, terminology;
way of speaking/writing, manner of speaking/writing, style (of speaking/writing), mode of speaking/writing, mode of expression;
French façon de parler
technical idiolect, sociolect
1.2Habitual or customary practice, especially as creating a right, obligation, or standard: [count noun]: the dictates and usages of polite society...
- The Board shall make its decision with regard to the custom and usage of the insurance and reinsurance business.
- Was there a custom or usage of the ports in Chile that cargo could be delivered without presentation of a bill of landing?
- It was not suggested that usage and custom in this context were other than synonymous.
Synonyms
custom, practice, habit, tradition, convention, routine, rule, rite, ritual, observance, ordinance, ceremony, ceremonial;
way, procedure, method, mode, form, formality, wont
formal praxis
(usages) Latinmores;
French moeurs
Origin
Middle English (in the sense 'customary practice'): from Old French, from us 'a use' (see use).