Metkagram · Grammar choice · XPRCGR002

Used to vs be used to: difference and examples

How to choose: Are you describing a past habit or state, or saying that something feels normal because you are accustomed to it?

Core distinction

'Used to + verb' describes a past habit or state that is no longer presented as current. 'Be used to + noun/doing' describes being accustomed to something; it is about familiarity, not a past-tense habit.

First pattern

used to + verb

past habit or past state

Second pattern

be used to + noun/doing

be accustomed to something

One contrast pattern, two meanings

EN: [Subject] used to [do X], but is now used to [doing Y].

Example: The team used to review everything manually, but it is now used to working with automated checks.

DE: Früher [tat X], aber inzwischen ist [Subjekt] daran gewöhnt, [Y zu tun].