Introduction

At B1 level, it is important not only to describe actions in different time frames, but also to talk about habits, changes, and adaptation. English offers three very similar expressions that often confuse learners: “used to,” “get used to,” and “be used to.” Although they look alike, their meanings and structures are quite different.

In this lesson, we will carefully explore each form. You will learn how to talk about past habits that no longer exist and how to describe the process of becoming accustomed to something new. By the end, you will clearly understand the difference and use each expression naturally.

Learning Objectives

Learning Objectives
By the end of this unit, you will be able to use “used to” to describe past habits and past states. You will understand how “get used to” expresses the process of adaptation. You will also be able to use “be used to” and “getting used to” correctly to describe being accustomed to something.

1. “Used to” – Past Habits and Past States

“Used to” describes situations that were true in the past but are no longer true.
When we say “used to,” we are talking about habits or states that existed before but have changed.

For example: “I used to play football every weekend.” This means that in the past it was a regular habit, but now I do not play anymore.

Another example is: “She used to live in Rome.” She lived there before, but she does not live there now.

The structure is simple: subject + used to + base verb. It always refers to the past.

In negative sentences, we say “did not use to.” For example: “I didn’t use to like coffee.” In questions, we say: “Did you use to play the piano?”

2. “Be Used to” – Being Accustomed to Something

“Be used to” means to be accustomed to something.
This expression does not describe the past habit itself, but rather a state of familiarity or comfort.

For example: “I am used to waking up early.” This means waking up early is normal for me now. I am accustomed to it.

Notice that after “be used to,” we use a noun or a verb in the -ing form. For example: “She is used to the cold weather.” Or: “They are used to working late.”

The structure changes according to the tense of “be.” For example: “He was used to the noise” or “We are used to living in a small apartment.”

3. “Get Used to” – The Process of Adaptation

“Get used to” describes the process of becoming accustomed.
When we use “get used to,” we focus on the change from unfamiliar to familiar.

For example: “I am getting used to my new job.” This means I am in the process of adapting.

Another example: “It took her a long time to get used to living alone.” At first it was difficult, but gradually it became normal.

Again, after “get used to,” we use a noun or a verb in the -ing form.

“Getting used to” is simply the -ing form of this expression, often used after certain verbs. For example: “She is getting used to driving on the left.”

4. Comparing the Three Forms

Do not confuse “used to” with “be used to.”
Although they look similar, they have different meanings and structures.

Compare these sentences:

“I used to wake up at 6 a.m.” This describes a past habit that is no longer true.

“I am used to waking up at 6 a.m.” This describes a present state of adaptation.

“I am getting used to waking up at 6 a.m.” This describes the process of adapting.

Understanding this difference will allow you to speak more precisely about change and personal development.

Practice Exercises

Choose the correct form: used to, be used to, or get used to.
Pay attention to whether the sentence describes a past habit, a present state, or the process of adaptation.