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The words employ<\/em><\/a> and use<\/em><\/a> are common synonyms of utilize<\/em>. While all three words mean \"to put into service especially to attain an end,\" utilize<\/em> may suggest the discovery of a new, profitable, or practical use for something.<\/p>

\/\/ an old wooden bucket utilized<\/em> as a planter<\/p>" } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "When is it sensible to use 'employ' instead of 'utilize'?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "

Although the words employ<\/em><\/a> and utilize<\/em> have much in common, employ<\/em> suggests the use of a person or thing that is available but idle, inactive, or disengaged.<\/p>

\/\/ looking for better ways to employ<\/em> their skills<\/p>" } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "When would 'use' be a good substitute for 'utilize'?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "

The words use<\/em><\/a> and utilize<\/em> are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, use<\/em> implies availing oneself of something as a means or instrument to an end.<\/p>

\/\/ willing to use<\/em> any means to achieve her ends<\/p>" } } ] }

utilize

verb

ˈyü-tÉ™-ËŒlÄ«z How to pronounce utilize (audio)
Definition of utilizenext
as in to use
to put into action or service we must utilize all the tools at our disposal

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb utilize contrast with its synonyms?

The words employ and use are common synonyms of utilize. While all three words mean "to put into service especially to attain an end," utilize may suggest the discovery of a new, profitable, or practical use for something.

an old wooden bucket utilized as a planter

When is it sensible to use employ instead of utilize?

Although the words employ and utilize have much in common, employ suggests the use of a person or thing that is available but idle, inactive, or disengaged.

looking for better ways to employ their skills

When would use be a good substitute for utilize?

The words use and utilize are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, use implies availing oneself of something as a means or instrument to an end.

willing to use any means to achieve her ends

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of utilize Alameda County Sheriff’s divers and detectives — utilizing drone and motor boats — were unable to find Alam for almost a week. —Annie Vainshtein, San Francisco Chronicle, 18 Mar. 2026 The money saved could be utilized for other projects. —Jim Woods, Chicago Tribune, 18 Mar. 2026 To review or object to instances where our partners assert a legitimate interest in utilizing your data, please visit our vendors page. —Alex Suskind, Pitchfork, 18 Mar. 2026 Plus, many people are already used to utilizing the Uber app, meaning consumers don't have to turn to a new service for autonomous vehicle rideshares. —Davis Giangiulio, CNBC, 17 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for utilize
Recent Examples of Synonyms for utilize
  1. use
  2. apply
  3. exploit
  4. employ
Verb
  • Several exclusive, bespoke massage treatments feature a handmade oil blend native to Kyoto, and facials use Japanese prestige skincare brand The Ginza.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 21 Mar. 2026
  • Delta Connection will operate both of the new routes using Embraer 175 regional jets with up to 76 seats, Wi-Fi and in-seat power outlets.
    — Alex Driggars, Austin American Statesman, 21 Mar. 2026
Definition of use
Verb
  • Eligible establishments would have to apply, and pay a $500 application fee.
    — Nikki DeMentri, CBS News, 27 Mar. 2026
  • This also applies to bedding—trading a heavy winter-time duvet for one with a lighter material like a linen or cotton percale can be a nice refresh.
    — Elly Leavitt, Vogue, 26 Mar. 2026
Definition of apply
Verb
  • The regime sought to eliminate my father by exploiting divisions that emerged within MOSOP in 1993.
    — Noo Saro-Wiwa, The Dial, 24 Mar. 2026
  • The membrane could also enable selective separation of ions with the same electric charge by exploiting subtle differences in how ions behave under an electric field.
    — Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 23 Mar. 2026
Definition of exploit
Verb
  • Based on my experience working in the federal government, your chances of staying employed and being promoted depend on whomever your supervisor favors in the office.
    — Letters to the Editor, Washington Post, 23 Mar. 2026
  • So this lime had been employed to both build and rebuild the city.
    — Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 23 Mar. 2026
Definition of employ

Browse Nearby Words

utilizations
utilize
utilized
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Cite this Entry

“Utilize.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/utilize. Accessed 27 Mar. 2026.

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Nglish: Translation of utilize for Spanish Speakers

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