utilize

verb

ˈyü-tə-ˌlīz 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 In two cases, failure of the vehicles' rearview cameras may cause blank or distorted images to appear, limiting the ability of drivers to utilize the backup feature and increasing crash risk. — Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA TODAY, 19 Mar. 2025 The new location is a partnership between the Ada County Sheriff’s Office and Star, which opted to utilize unused office space to expand the service to its city hall. — Ashley Fredde, Idaho Statesman, 18 Mar. 2025 Satellite connectivity Recent flagship iPhones have gradually added a small suite of features that utilize satellite connectivity to make life a little easier and safer. — Ars Technica, 7 Mar. 2025 Always look for feedback and new ways to utilize the platform. — Barbara Puszkiewicz-Cimino, Forbes, 7 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for utilize
Recent Examples of Synonyms for utilize
  1. use
  2. apply
  3. exploit
  4. employ
Verb
  • Through a careful expedition using cutting-edge technology, gold has been drawn from the site for the first time in years and will be available via public auction through the sale of the coins.
    — Janine Henni, People.com, 20 Mar. 2025
  • When in doubt, navigate directly to the website using an address rather than clicking through from another site.
    — Kelly Phillips Erb, Forbes, 20 Mar. 2025
Definition of use
Verb
  • Forbes is protected by reCAPTCHA, and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
    — Court Stroud, Forbes, 16 Mar. 2025
  • That focus on the bottom line also applies to megacap tech companies.
    — Kate Rooney, CNBC, 15 Mar. 2025
Definition of apply
Verb
  • Apple’s Surprise iPhone Update Fixes 1 Bug, Adds 1 Frustration By avoiding the heavy lifting of real institutional reform, DEI initiatives have inadvertently fueled opposition, enabling right-wing politicians to exploit these missteps to justify rolling back civil rights protections.
    — Aparna Rae, Forbes, 12 Mar. 2025
  • The authors provided examples of SLAPPs filed in response to advocacy on many issues, including civil rights, environmental preservation, consumer protection and women’s rights. SLAPP suits often exploit power and financial imbalances.
    — Jennifer Safstrom, The Conversation, 11 Mar. 2025
Definition of exploit
Verb
  • Rather, these programs employ laudably sophisticated statistical capabilities exercised on huge amounts of data — writing, visual imagery, video, audio, or computer code — and look for patterns.
    — Erik Sherman, Forbes, 18 Mar. 2025
  • How is firing everybody who is employed in any way with our CIA, FBI, veterans hospitals, Homeland Security, FEMA, Department of Education, and seemingly any other organization that serves the citizens of our country helping our nation?
    — arkansasonline.com, arkansasonline.com, 18 Mar. 2025
Definition of employ

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Cite this Entry

“Utilize.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/utilize. Accessed 26 Mar. 2025.

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