Introduction to BE USED TO
BE USED TO + gerund describes familiarity with situations or actions. It expresses that something is normal or no longer strange for someone.
Basic Structure
Subject + BE (am/is/are/was/were) + used to + verb-ing
Example: I am used to waking up early.
Example: I am used to waking up early.
Present and Past Forms
Present: am/is/are used to + gerund
Past: was/were used to + gerund
Past: was/were used to + gerund
Examples
She is used to living in a big city.This means living in a big city is normal for her now
They weren't used to eating spicy food.This means spicy food was strange for them in the past
I am used to driving on the left side.This means driving on the left feels normal to me now
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Incorrect: I am used to sleep late
✅ Correct: I am used to sleeping late
Explanation: Always use the gerund (-ing form) after 'used to'
❌ Incorrect: I am using to working late
✅ Correct: I am used to working late
Explanation: Don't use progressive forms with 'be used to'
Tips for Success
- Always use the gerund (verb + ing) after 'be used to'
- This structure talks about familiarity, not past habits
- Don't confuse with 'used to + infinitive' which describes past habits
Learning Path Notes
Key Concepts in This Series:
- BE USED TO + gerund structure
- Present and past forms
- Expression of familiarity
- Contrast with other habit expressions