used to

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

This techno-libertarian subculture used to be just that: a subculture.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 1, 2026

They also note that the imaging technique used to measure thymic health is not yet ready for routine use in clinical practice.

From Science Daily • Jun. 1, 2026

Far too lofty, but I had a high school teacher who used to shout, “We’re not teaching you rules, we’re handing you a moral, ethical code.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 1, 2026

This process used to take four or five years—do it small, wait a couple terms, then do it big.

From Slate • Jun. 1, 2026

“And so now I have to ask you if you still believe that your relationship with him used to be ‘easier’ and ‘simpler.’

From "Red Flags and Butterflies" by Sheryl Azzam