1. What are ‘used to’ and ‘used for’?

The structures ‘used to’ and ‘used for’ say the purpose of a noun.

2. How to use ‘used to’ and ‘used for’

There are different ways to describe what objects are for:

1. Used + infinitive (to …)
2. Used + for + gerund (…ing)
3. Used + for + noun

They all follow the verb ‘be’.

Used + infinitive (to…)

used	infinitive	example sentence
used	to carry	A schoolbag is used to carry books.
used	to eat	Chopsticks are used to eat food.
used	to write	A pencil is used to write.

Used + for + gerund (…ing)

used	for	gerund	example sentence
used	for	shopping	Money is used for shopping.
used	for	swimming	A penguin’s flippers are used for swimming.
used	for	gambling	Casino chips are used for gambling.

Used + for + noun

used	for	noun	example sentence
used	for	school	This bag is used for school.
used	for	staff	The break room is used for staff.
used	for	carpets	Don’t use that shampoo: it is used for carpets.

Used + infinitive (to …)	Used for + gerund (…ing)	Used for + noun
A bag is used to carry things.	A bag is used for carrying things.	A bag is used for loads that need carried.
A pen is used to write.	A pen is used for writing.	A pen is used for letters.
Shampoo is used to wash hair.	Shampoo is used for washing hair.	Shampoo is used for clean hair.
A microwave is used to heat food.	A microwave is used for heating food.	A microwave is used for food.
This room is used to hold meetings.	This room is used for holding meetings.	This room is used for meetings.
That bucket is used to collect rainwater.	That bucket is used for collecting rainwater.	That bucket is used for rainwater.
This camera is used to watch the front door.	This camera is used for watching the front door.	This camera is used for the front door.
Scissors are used to cut things.	Scissors are used for cutting things.	Scissors are used for cuts.
Banks are used to save money.	Banks are used for saving money.	Banks are used for savings.
Cars are used to go from one place to another place.	Cars are used for going from one place to another place.	Cars are used for journeys.