27/10 Used to, be used to , get used to

 

• "Used to" always refers to the past. Use it to talk about habits, states, or facts that were true before, but which aren't true now. Example: "We used to live in San Diego." This means we lived in San Diego before, but we don't live there now.

• "Be used to" is typically used in the past and present. It refers to the state of being familiar with, comfortable with, and accustomed to something. Example: "Beatriz is used to showering in the morning." This means she is accustomed to showering in the morning, not in the evening. This behaviour is something she is comfortable with and familiar with.

• "Get used to" can be used in all tenses. It is the sister phrase of "be used to," but it focuses on the process of becoming familiar with, comfortable with, and accustomed to something. For example: "We're getting used to living together." This means my roommate and I are learning how to live together. We are still becoming comfortable with our living arrangement.

• "Be used to" and "get used to" are sister phrases. "Used to" is separate because of its focus on the past.

For many English learners, three of the most challenging phrases to understand are "used to," "be used to," and "get used to." Fortunately, the difference is clear when we discuss the phrases individually. The true challenge is using the phrases confidently in English conversation. By reading and interacting with this article, I hope you will feel more comfortable and familiar with these phrases in just a few minutes.