use 1 of 2

Definition of usenext
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
This results page was generated automatically using information from TinBu and a template written and reviewed by a Rhode Island editor. Staff Reports, The Providence Journal, 7 Feb. 2026 Clinton, whose relationship with Epstein has been subject to public scrutiny, said his desire for a public hearing is out of respect for Epstein’s victims and claimed Comer, who presides over the committee, is using Clinton as a political pawn. Claire Carter, The Washington Examiner, 7 Feb. 2026
Noun
What separates Hush from other slasher films of its ilk is how Flanagan and Siegel give its main character sharp instincts and depth, as well as a frightening use of silence. Kevin Jacobsen, Entertainment Weekly, 31 Jan. 2026 The City Council agreed that an environmental impact report prepared for the Guajome Lake Homes project failed to adequately address public safety, land-use issues and wildlife concerns. Phil Diehl, San Diego Union-Tribune, 31 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for use
Recent Examples of Synonyms for use
Verb
  • Callella has been arrested on suspicion of transmitting a demand for ransom in interstate commerce, and without disclosing his identity, utilizing a telecommunications device with the intent to abuse, threaten or harass a person.
    Richard Winton, Los Angeles Times, 6 Feb. 2026
  • And there was a lot of discussion about AI, but it really wasn’t being utilized in film and television production.
    Cynthia Littleton, Variety, 6 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Thursday’s move reflects lawmakers’ significant interest in how foreign allies treat American companies.
    David Zimmermann, The Washington Examiner, 6 Feb. 2026
  • Lovely was arrested in connection with the stabbing and is also being treated at Atrium Hospital.
    Matthew Cupelli, Cincinnati Enquirer, 6 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Violent confrontations targeting Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents in Minnesota are being driven by outside actors exploiting chaos, not organic protest, according to a protest insider warning that the situation is rapidly spiraling.
    Stepheny Price, FOXNews.com, 27 Jan. 2026
  • Instead, it was siphoned off and exploited.
    Jennifer Nassour, Boston Herald, 27 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • Callella, 42, is accused of using a voice over internet protocol text and call application to surreptitiously reach out to the family, but authorities were able to link the phone number to his email address and, later, his residence, according to the complaint.
    Richard Winton, Los Angeles Times, 6 Feb. 2026
  • Future versions are projected to extend driving range to around 310–372 miles (500–600 kilometers), expanding suitability beyond short-range applications.
    Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 6 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • As more people and businesses accept Bitcoin as a form of payment, a store of wealth, or as a core element of the larger crypto system, its usefulness naturally grows.
    K.H. Koehler, jsonline.com, 29 Jan. 2026
  • Many hardware platforms these days benefit from software updates long after the initial purchase price, upgrading capability and usefulness.
    John Koetsier, Forbes.com, 29 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • Once the pork is about 80 percent browned to your liking, 8 to 10 minutes, add the garlic.
    Holly Riordan, Better Homes & Gardens, 31 Jan. 2026
  • Once the tomato's ripeness is to your liking, Sears says to hold the stem of the plant with one hand and pull the tomato off with the other.
    Nashia Baker, Martha Stewart, 29 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Eight of these units were connected to each other and a linear actuator was installed at one end of the line to apply the force needed to activate the elastocaloric effect.
    IEEE Spectrum, IEEE Spectrum, 5 Feb. 2026
  • Regardless of the type, apply the fertilizer in late winter to prepare your tree for the upcoming growing season.
    Emily Hayes, Martha Stewart, 5 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • The Georgia Bureau of Investigation, which customarily handles shootings involving officers in the Peach State, is handling the investigation, which remains ongoing.
    Landon Mion, FOXNews.com, 2 Feb. 2026
  • Be careful when handling debris that may have blown into your yard.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 1 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Use.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/use. Accessed 7 Feb. 2026.

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