use 1 of 2

1
2
as in to treat
to behave toward in a stated way the factory workers were underpaid and poorly used by their employers

Synonyms & Similar Words

3

use

2 of 2

noun

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb use contrast with its synonyms?

The words employ and utilize are common synonyms of use. While all three words mean "to put into service especially to attain an end," use implies availing oneself of something as a means or instrument to an end.

willing to use any means to achieve her ends

Where would employ be a reasonable alternative to use?

Although the words employ and use 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 is it sensible to use utilize instead of use?

While in some cases nearly identical to use, utilize may suggest the discovery of a new, profitable, or practical use for something.

an old wooden bucket utilized as a planter

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 use
Verb
The web, by contrast, was free, easy to use, and, thanks to hypertext, infinitely flexible. Julian Lucas, New Yorker, 29 Sep. 2025 Crystal flower embellishments were used prominently in other styles, bringing sparkle to pastel mules, slingbacks, kitten heels and more. Martino Carrera, Footwear News, 29 Sep. 2025
Noun
The creation of this content included the use of AI based on templates created, reviewed and edited by journalists in the newsroom. Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 30 Sep. 2025 Despite his warning, lead poisoning may have contributed to the downfall of the Roman Empire through the use of lead in wine, bowls, cups, and cosmetics. Tom Frieden, Big Think, 30 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for use
Recent Examples of Synonyms for use
Verb
  • The paper's Friday story added that authorities utilized genealogical DNA to secure the recent breakthrough — the same kind of evidence that led to an arrest in the notorious Golden State Killer case in 2018.
    Ryan Coleman, Entertainment Weekly, 29 Sep. 2025
  • The streamer has utilized boxing events, such as Canelo-Crawford and the Jake Paul-Mike Tyson fight, promoted by Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions, to expand its foray into live events.
    Matt Moret, New York Times, 29 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • He was treated at the same facility as Nichols.
    Sydney Barragan, Oc Register, 27 Sep. 2025
  • Jillian, who police say had no involvement in the hit-and-run and was standing in her own yard, was later taken into custody and treated for a non-life-threatening gunshot wound.
    Anthony Robledo, USA Today, 27 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Based on a true story, an aristocrat close to the Viceroy of New Spain begins a series of murders in 1637 Mexico City, exploiting his status to avoid justice.
    Anna Marie de la Fuente, Variety, 1 Oct. 2025
  • These days, Howard has become a huge defensive liability, and the Rams made sure to exploit him.
    James Boyd, New York Times, 1 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • That number decreased significantly the following day, to 909, and continued to drop before fluctuating between about 30 and 300 applications for the duration of the application period.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 2 Oct. 2025
  • The battlefield applications of these fields are already being demonstrated.
    Rebecca A. Fannin, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Brandon Sproat and Jonah Tong showed flashes of usefulness — and were trusted as much as the veterans around them.
    Tim Britton, New York Times, 30 Sep. 2025
  • Analysts warned that consumers with insurance may continue to pay less at the pharmacy counter than through the TrumpRx website, raising questions about the program’s broader usefulness.
    Jenna Sundel, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Another one of his tops came in a deep shade of red and did seem to be to his liking.
    Angel Saunders, PEOPLE, 24 Sep. 2025
  • Haight finished second on the team in goals with 20, and after some adjustment found better competition, and better teammates, to his liking.
    Jess Myers, Twin Cities, 24 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • There are, nonetheless, lessons that could apply to businesses and policymakers anywhere.
    Peter Vanham, Fortune, 2 Oct. 2025
  • Water plants thoroughly and apply 1 to 2 inches of mulch, leaving a small ring around the trunk free of mulch.
    Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 1 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Still, some industry critics have said Peloton's equipment isn't appropriate for gym settings because the machines can't handle higher frequency use, which prompted the company to create a more durable lineup.
    Gabrielle Fonrouge, CNBC, 1 Oct. 2025
  • Democrats say health care protections must be preserved, while Republicans say that funding and policy should be handled separately.
    Martha McHardy, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 Oct. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Use.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/use. Accessed 2 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on use

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!