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 Daniel Brooks, Hollywood Editor’s Note: The Sun Sentinel asked the school district for a response, which came from its Department of Athletics and Student Activities: The decision to utilize this venue is based primarily on capacity, accessibility and logistics. Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 10 June 2025 As the largest sport in high school for girls and the largest by participation for women in the NCAA, track and field provides the most opportunities for these athletes to not only experience the benefits of sport but to utilize it as a pathway to college. Russell Dinkins, Sportico.com, 10 June 2025 Treatments include massages utilizing a mixture of orange, clove, ginger and seaweed, or emulating the movements of the sea to relieve muscular tension; a seaweed leaf wrap to soften and nourish the skin and skin renewal facials. Laurie Werner, Forbes.com, 31 May 2025 The abominable snowman terrorized the North Pole with his size and sheer power, but by the end of the show, Santa Claus and the elves found a way to turn perceived negatives into actual positives by utilizing the snowman’s height to place a star at the top of the Christmas tree. Chicago Tribune, 30 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for utilize
Recent Examples of Synonyms for utilize
Verb
  • On Wednesday, police in Seattle used pepper spray to clear out protesters, and officers in Denver used smoke and pepper balls to control a crowd.
    Krysta Fauria, Chicago Tribune, 13 June 2025
  • Could breeze through the low-minors using just his fastball, but secondary stuff needs work to reach his potential, and focus on development of those pitches will likely slow down his development and lead to more mixed results in some outings.
    Jon Vankin, MSNBC Newsweek, 12 June 2025
Verb
  • If the individual is a non-resident, non-citizen of the U.S., the federal estate tax applies only to assets situated or deemed to be situated within the U.S. (for example, U.S. real property or stock in a U.S. corporation).
    Kelly Phillips Erb, Forbes.com, 7 June 2025
  • The reports indicate 20 people have applied with the city for up to $7,000 in emergency rental assistance for new apartments, and 16 have met the eligibility requirements.
    Michael L. Hyman, Miami Herald, 7 June 2025
Verb
  • Whether climate denial, corporate lobbying or inequitable wealth distribution, our systems often reward those who can exploit the system without regard for their impact on long-term system health.
    Maureen Metcalf, Forbes.com, 4 June 2025
  • Only in these areas will humanitarian aid be provided—by an American company under direct Israeli security arrangements—to avoid previous distribution arrangements that were exploited by Hamas.
    Assaf Orion, Foreign Affairs, 3 June 2025
Verb
  • Becker and colleagues employed a Pavlov-like research design to figure out whether people can decouple the sensation of pain from the experience of that pain.
    Peter Ubel, Forbes.com, 10 June 2025
  • Instead, Lloyd employed a bare stage and an ensemble of actors dressed all in black.
    Jenelle Riley, Variety, 9 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Utilize.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/utilize. Accessed 17 Jun. 2025.

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