Synonyms of utilize

utilize

verb

ˈyü-tə-ˌlīz 

as in to use

to put into action or service

we must utilize all the tools at our disposal

Synonyms & Similar Words

• use
• apply
• exploit
• employ
• operate
• harness
• exercise
• draw upon
• make use of
• draw on
• wield
• handle
• manipulate
• bring to bear
• work
• direct
• run
• recycle
• reuse
• cannibalize

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• ignore
• neglect
• misuse
• misapply

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

Recent Examples of utilize

The robot utilizes dual filtration, featuring a 180μm basket and a 40 ppi ultra-fine sponge. —Matthew Kayser, USA Today, 22 Aug. 2025

Offensive coordinator Marcus Arroyo utilizes the screen game often, and Udoh — who had two catches for three yards in two seasons at Army – has spent most of camp trying to catch up to Arroyo’s gameplan for him in the passing game. —The Athletic College Football Staff, New York Times, 22 Aug. 2025

Back in 2014, The Tennessean utilized the document to report several reasons why Nashville wasn't ready to host a Super Bowl. —Hadley Hitson, The Tennessean, 21 Aug. 2025

Pure album sales were the sole measurement utilized by the Billboard 200 albums chart through the list dated Dec. 6, 2014, after which that chart switched to a methodology that blends album sales with track equivalent album (TEA) units and streaming equivalent album (SEA) units. —Keith Caulfield, Billboard, 20 Aug. 2025