Describing something currently being operated, utilized, or actively employed for a particular purpose. It indicates that an object, system, resource, or piece of equipment is not idle or available, but is actively engaged in performing its designed function. This state can apply to various contexts, from software applications and physical machinery to infrastructure and personal items. The term implies active consumption, utilization, or operation at a specific point in time, distinct from being stored, unused, or under repair. Often associated with a limited resource or a scheduled activity.
In-use meaning with examples
- The library's 'in-use' system efficiently tracks which books are checked out. It also helps staff manage the flow of patrons and prevent overcrowding. A red light above each computer indicates its 'in-use' status, preventing multiple people from trying to access the same machine simultaneously. This reduces waiting times and allows the library to optimize resource distribution. This makes the library operate much more efficiently.
- The power grid's real-time data showed that during the peak summer hours, the electricity demand reached a critical level, putting most of the generating capacity 'in-use'. Therefore, the utility company sent out a warning to conserve electricity to prevent a system failure. Many of the power plants were fully 'in-use', creating stress on the infrastructure. Careful monitoring of these critical 'in-use' parameters is essential.
- The software developer discovered that a critical data file was permanently locked because the process accessing it went down while it was 'in-use'. Restoring the service would require clearing the 'in-use' flag and ensuring data integrity. The error message clearly stated the file was 'in-use', preventing further attempts at modifications. Recovering from these errors required meticulous analysis to prevent data corruption or further complications.
- The new highway project required the closure of several existing roads, with detours marked on the maps indicating which routes were currently 'in-use'. The construction crew ensured traffic flow by using traffic management strategies to allow for road closures and maintain some roads 'in-use'. These careful 'in-use' plans ensured public safety and streamlined the completion of the project.
- During the factory shutdown, several machines remained 'in-use' for scheduled maintenance and repairs. The designated staff kept a record of the specific machines 'in-use', and their repair schedule. The maintenance team, by marking their 'in-use' machines, ensures that other teams stay away from that part of the production floor to reduce any chance of injury to their teams, or equipment damage.