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

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 Designers are also utilizing unwashed denim in fresh new ways. Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 8 Sep. 2025 As real-time risk management solutions have become more mainstream, the ability to utilize these forecasts across a multi-tier supply chain has significantly improved. Steve Banker, Forbes.com, 8 Sep. 2025 The Jets offense leaned on the run game, utilizing one of Fields' best attributes. Aaliyan Mohammed, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Sep. 2025 Production is scheduled to begin later in September in Los Angeles and will utilize the same production crew that worked on the original show. Joe Otterson, Variety, 8 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for utilize
Recent Examples of Synonyms for utilize
Verb
  • Russian media reports suggested that Putin stopped using the residence from 2024 amid intensifying Ukrainian drone attacks.
    David Brennan, ABC News, 9 Sep. 2025
  • Wash dirty hands before using a touchscreen or laptop keyboard.
    Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 9 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • With this certification program, employees can take short learning breaks and access ready-to-apply AI content on demand, instantly increasing their AI acumen.
    Malana VanTyler, USA Today, 11 Sep. 2025
  • The other end of the spectrum are breaks that happen when a single application of force is applied to the bone.
    Bruce Y. Lee, Forbes.com, 11 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Jeffrey Breinholt, an architect of the material support statutes who spent three decades as a federal terrorism prosecutor, defends the laws as crucial to closing loopholes that were exploited by foreign militant groups and their domestic sympathizers.
    Hannah Allam, ProPublica, 10 Sep. 2025
  • Her 23-year-old son, Rahjah Ke’ Morton, recently accused her of exploiting his past cancer diagnosis for personal gain.
    Essence, Essence, 10 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • The plant was projected to employ up to 8,500 people when complete.
    Caroll Alvarado, CNN Money, 6 Sep. 2025
  • The Jayhawks had decided, coach Lance Leipold said postgame, to run out the clock rather than trying to score in the final minute — a sharp departure from the aggressive play-calling KU had employed in the first quarter.
    Shreyas Laddha, Kansas City Star, 6 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Utilize.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/utilize. Accessed 12 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on utilize

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