Used to, Be Used to, Get Used to
Discover the difference between these similar forms
Look at this sentence about the past.
- When I was a child, I used to play outside every day.
What does “used to play” mean here?
Now, look at a sentence about the present.
- I live in Canada, so I am used to seeing snow.
What does “am used to seeing” mean?
Now, let’s look at another situation.
- When I first moved to Canada, it was cold! I had to get used to living in a cold climate.
What does “get used to living” describe?
Let’s compare two final sentences about the past.
- A: He used to work in a noisy factory.
- B: He worked there for 40 years, so he was used to working in a noisy place.
Which sentence focuses on the idea that the noise was normal and familiar for him?
One last detail. Let’s look at the difference between the process and the moment of completion.
- A: It took me a while to get used to the new software.
- B: After a week of practice, I finally got used to the new software.
Which sentence marks the specific moment the software became familiar?
You’ve Discovered The Rules!
Used to + Verb is for past habits or states that are no longer true.
Example: I used to eat meat, but now I’m a vegetarian.
Be used to + Verb-ing means something is normal or familiar to you. (Present: am/is/are, Past: was/were).
Example: As a teacher, I am used to speaking in public.
Example: When I was a child, I was used to sleeping with a night light.
Get / Got used to + Verb-ing describes the process of becoming familiar (get), or the moment you became familiar (got).
Example (Process): It’s hard to get used to a new boss.
Example (Completion): I eventually got used to her management style.
Test Your Knowledge
Choose the correct form for each sentence.