Definition of utilizenext

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 His Raising Cane’s work, titled Cane’s Anthem, continues the Pop-lite aesthetic, utilizing phrases and images that appear to be culled from the mass media. Alex Greenberger, ARTnews.com, 30 June 2026 Released Parties are also not responsible for any incorrect or inaccurate information, whether caused by site users, tampering, hacking, or by any equipment or programming associated with or utilized in the Giveaway. AJC.com, 30 June 2026 The foundation recommended ballot curing programs that speed up the process by utilizing a secure text platform when double checking whether a ballot is legitimate when a voter’s signature doesn’t match state records. Kevin Rector, Los Angeles Times, 29 June 2026 The monitor also utilizes 99% of the sRGB color gamut, as well as HDR10, to create vivid colors and striking contrast. George Yang, PC Magazine, 29 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for utilize
Recent Examples of Synonyms for utilize
Verb
  • Alysa Guffey Currently, data centers use industrial zoning and ask for exemptions to use the site for data centers.
    Alysa Guffey, IndyStar, 2 July 2026
  • In court documents, O’Hara alleged the defendants violated his First and Fourth Amendment rights, accusing them of unlawfully restricting free speech and initiating an unlawful seizure while using excessive force.
    Bonny Chu, FOXNews.com, 2 July 2026
Verb
  • Wiener asked for amendments to the bill during the bill’s review and in the committee meeting, including that the lifetime ban only be applied to Tier 3 members.
    Andrew J. Campa, Los Angeles Times, 2 July 2026
  • The ruling establishes the legal standard going forward and does not change the law that applied previously.
    Jackson Thompson OutKick, FOXNews.com, 2 July 2026
Verb
  • Jim has repeatedly said that as AI becomes better at uncovering software flaws, businesses will need increasingly sophisticated tools to identify, patch, and defend against those vulnerabilities before hackers can exploit them.
    Alexa LoMonaco, CNBC, 3 July 2026
  • Firmware updates often fix security holes that attackers love to exploit.
    Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 3 July 2026
Verb
  • Krystal McFeders, a Unified Government spokesperson, confirmed Friday night that Chism is employed by the government.
    Eleanor Nash, Kansas City Star, 4 July 2026
  • Should economic growth threaten one of those aspects, the FOMC is employed to move in order to deliver its objectives.
    Eleanor Pringle, Fortune, 3 July 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Utilize.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/utilize. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on utilize

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster