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

Blood-Smeared Utensils, Plate Found at Scene Where Princeton Man Allegedly Killed Brother Sonar units, drones from nearby Hamilton Township, N.J., and K-9 units are currently being utilized in the water search for Blackburn, per 6ABC. —Madison E. Goldberg, People.com, 23 Apr. 2025

But a spokesperson for California’s highest court said Tuesday that justices found out only this week that the State Bar had utilized AI in developing exam questions. —Jenny Jarvie, Los Angeles Times, 23 Apr. 2025

Those companies—Fanatics, Under Armour, Adidas, New Balance, New Era Cap, Nike, Puma, Lululemon, Amer Sports, Asics and Dick’s Sporting Goods—utilize 2,508 factories around the world. —Lev Akabas, Sportico.com, 10 Apr. 2025

At the time of his murder, the DEA and Camarena had been utilizing a series of wiretaps to make sizeable drug busts inside Mexico. —Greg Norman, FOXNews.com, 10 Apr. 2025