Used to, be used to and get used to look very similar, don’t they? They all contain the words ‘used’ and ‘to’, so you would think they mean the same thing, wouldn’t you?

WRONG! I’m afraid to say they mean different things and they aren’t interchangeable. The good news is… they aren’t too difficult once you learn the rules and they are useful if you want to speak like a native. I’ll start by giving you a little tip…

Look up ‘use’ in the dictionary, you will find many definitions including being used as a verb and a noun. In the instances outlined on this page, ‘use’ is not the main verb. The main verb comes after it. We can take ‘use’ to mean accustomed, usual, or familiar in these instances.

What is the difference between them?

Are you ready to delve a little deeper? Click on the links below to see each one in more detail. Then, watch the video if you’re still having trouble.

hints for using ‘be used to’ and ‘get used to’

Here are a few tips about be used to and get used to.

be + used to and get used to - future
be + used to and get used to - past
be + used to and get used to - present
be + used to and get used to
be + used to and get used to

used to, be used to and get used to quiz

When you’ve learnt the differences, try the quiz.

used to, be used to and get used to exercises
used to, be used to and get used to exercises
used to, be used to and get used to exercises
used to, be used to and get used to exercises

answers 1. c)   2. b)   3. b)   4. d)   5. a)   6. c)   7. a)    8. b)