UTILIZE Synonyms: 24 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

utilize

verb

ˈyü-tə-ˌlīz

Definition of utilize next

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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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 Travel + Leisure spotted a variety of warm-weather destinations that the promotional code can be applied to including Dallas, Fort Myers, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and Phoenix Travelers looking to utilize the sale must purchase tickets by 11:59 p.m. —

Michael Cappetta, Travel + Leisure, 29 Jan. 2025 First off, in comparison to meteorites, which enter Earth's atmosphere while enduring a fiery reentry process before plummeting to the ground, the OSIRIS-REx samples are pristine due to the lengths NASA went to to utilize a spacecraft in their delivery. —

Monisha Ravisetti, Space.com, 29 Jan. 2025 Founders Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy, and Mike McCarley have developed a league that manages matches indoors utilizing advanced simulation technology. —

Barbara A. Perry, Newsweek, 28 Jan. 2025 Instead of using Downs as a traditional deep safety, Ohio State switched to using him about nine to 10 yards off the line of scrimmage, giving him a chance to utilize his instincts in the run game along with his athleticism in the pass game. —

Cameron Teague Robinson, The Athletic, 19 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for utilize

Recent Examples of Synonyms for utilize

Verb

Dash makes compact kitchen appliances that are super easy to use, clean, and store.

— Brenda Stolyar, WIRED, 31 Jan. 2025
Still, its clarity prompted Corbet to use 16 mm film in some montages and then blow it up to 70 mm for exhibition.

— John Wenzel, The Denver Post, 31 Jan. 2025