Definition

1. Verb:
   • To put to use, especially for a practical purpose: To make something serve a function or achieve a goal.
   • To employ for a specific end: To use something effectively for a particular task or advantage.

Usage

The verb "utilize" means to use something in a way that makes it practical or effective. It often implies finding a purpose for something or using it to its full potential. It is more formal than the simpler verb "use."

Examples

• Verb:
  • How do you utilize this tool? (What is the practical method for employing this tool?)
  • The company will utilize solar panels to reduce energy costs. (The company will put solar panels into service for a practical benefit.)
  • She utilized her network to find a new job. (She effectively employed her contacts for a specific purpose.)

Advanced Usage

• "To utilize something to its full potential": To use something in the most effective and complete way possible.
  • The new software helps us utilize our data to its full potential.
• "To utilize something as something": To employ one thing to serve the function of another.
  • They utilized the empty warehouse as a temporary shelter.

Variants and Related Words

• Utilization (n): The action of making practical or effective use of something.
  • The efficient utilization of resources is a key goal.
• Utilizable (adj): Capable of being used effectively.
  • The findings are utilizable in future research.

Synonyms

• Use: To employ for a purpose. (More general and common than "utilize.")
• Employ: To make use of.
• Apply: To put to use, especially in a specific instance.
• Exploit: To utilize fully and often for profit or advantage.

Antonyms

• Waste: To use or expend carelessly or without purpose.
• Ignore: To refuse to take notice of or use.

Notes on Usage

"Utilize" is often used in formal, technical, or business contexts. In everyday speech, "use" is typically preferred. Some style guides recommend using "use" unless the meaning specifically involves making something serve a new or practical purpose that it wasn't originally intended for.

Verb

1. convert (from an investment trust to a unit trust)
2. put into service; make work or employ for a particular purpose or for its inherent or natural purpose
   • use your head!
   • we only use Spanish at home
   • I can't use this tool
   • Apply a magnetic field here
   • This thinking was applied to many projects
   • How do you utilize this tool?
   • I apply this rule to get good results
   • use the plastic bags to store the food
   • He doesn't know how to use a computer