Meaning and Usage
The verb '이용되다' means 'to be used' or 'to be utilized.' It is the passive form of '이용하다' (to use). This word is commonly used in formal and neutral contexts to describe how something is employed or utilized by people or for specific purposes.
Common Contexts
You will often see '이용되다' in contexts related to services, facilities, programs, or materials. For example, public transportation, software, or data can be described as '이용되다' to indicate their usage.
Collocations and Patterns
- '많이 이용되다': to be used a lot, often
- '~에 이용되다': to be used for (a purpose or by someone)
- '~만 이용되다': to be used only for
These patterns help specify the extent, purpose, or limitation of usage.
Register and Politeness
'이용되다' is neutral and can be used in both written and spoken Korean, especially in formal or informational contexts. It is less casual than '쓰이다' (to be used) and more appropriate when discussing services or official matters.
Common Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse '이용되다' with '사용되다,' which also means 'to be used.' While similar, '이용되다' often implies purposeful or beneficial use, especially in service or resource contexts, whereas '사용되다' is more general. Choosing the right word depends on nuance and context.