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 New processes like StoryCamera, StoryPerformance and StoryLighting have been created and were utilized in the several minutes of work-in-progress footage the panel showcased. — Abbey White, HollywoodReporter, 9 Oct. 2026 The pipelines were previously utilized to transport natural gas. — Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 9 Oct. 2026 For its part, the cement itself was found to have a compressive strength comparable to that of commercial concrete commonly utilized in slabs and stairs. — New Atlas, 8 Oct. 2026 The data showed that surging imports of oil, gold and computer chips utilized in the development of artificial intelligence were the driving forces behind the massive tipping of the scales. — Kate Nishimura, Footwear News, 7 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for utilize
Recent Examples of Synonyms for utilize
  1. use
  2. apply
  3. exploit
  4. employ
Verb
  • Hickel also described how the production used virtual reality to scout digital environments and simulate different seating positions inside an IMAX auditorium.
    — Davide Abbatescianni, Variety, 13 Oct. 2026
  • Their role becomes clear at 21-, 36- and 52-Across, where the clues solve to partial entries, which can be completed only by using the entry spaces of those dash clues.
    — Sam Corbin, New York Times, 13 Oct. 2026
Definition of use
Verb
  • The approach applies manufacturing practices to research and development, allowing engineers and machinists to modify components and processes quickly as designs evolve.
    — Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 15 Oct. 2026
  • Al Hassan wants renewal to happen automatically without needing to apply.
    — Inzamam Rashid, Fortune, 14 Oct. 2026
Definition of apply
Verb
  • Now, in yet another blow to national self-esteem, the ex-head of Germany’s foreign intelligence agency, the BND, has been arrested on charges of exploiting state secrets.
    — The Week UK, TheWeek, 17 Oct. 2026
  • Major cringe, on the other hand, navigates the aesthetic affect critically and formally to induce it—viscerally exploiting its possibilities.
    — Eugenie Brinkema, ARTnews.com, 17 Oct. 2026
Definition of exploit
Verb
  • The beats create ample negative space for Holden to employ riskier flows, often deploying a double-time pace to burn through technically dense passages.
    — Matthew Ritchie, Pitchfork, 15 Oct. 2026
  • Plus, data centers aren’t acting with haste or employing new innovations.
    — Emma Burleigh, Fortune, 15 Oct. 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 19 Oct. 2026.

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