The phrase “used + to + [verb]” typically expresses an ongoing action, habit, or circumstance that no longer exists in the present.
An example of this is: “The girl used to watch T.V.” (which implies that now she does not).
Another example is: “She used to have a cat” (but now she does not).
In contrast, the phrase “ [to be] + used to + [noun phrase]” implies that you have grown accustomed to a circumstance that previously was unfamiliar.
An example of this is: “I am used to speaking English now that I practice on Cambly”. (This sentence suggests that at first you were uncomfortable speaking English since it was new to you, but now you are comfortable speaking it because you practice a lot).
These two phrases mean different things and are not interchangeable.
Author: Louise US, Cambly Tutor
If you’d like to keep this conversation going with Louise, give her a call on Cambly or make a reservation with her here: https://www.cambly.com/en/student/tutor/Louise%20US
