utilize

verb

ˈyü-tə-ˌlīz How to pronounce utilize (audio)
Definition of utilizenext
as in to use
to put into action or service we must utilize all the tools at our disposal

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 And it has been shown to increase nitric oxide, which expands your blood vessels, enabling you to utilize more oxygen. —Claire Cameron, Scientific American, 11 Feb. 2026 By utilizing Earth’s natural geology, the design achieves several breakthroughs. —Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 11 Feb. 2026 Rooted in all-American designs from the 1950s, the outerwear utilizes diverse materials like wool and distressed lamb leather, letting at-home shoppers pick from several distinct styles. —Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 11 Feb. 2026 Nature’s Bounty utilizes a variety of live cultures in each probiotic for their specific benefits. —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 11 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for utilize
Recent Examples of Synonyms for utilize
  1. use
  2. apply
  3. exploit
  4. employ
Verb
  • Trump has repeatedly threatened to use force to compel Iran to agree to constrain its nuclear program and over Tehran's crackdown on nationwide protests.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 14 Feb. 2026
  • Discoverability, most people just use algorithms to find music nowadays.
    — Ben Smith, semafor.com, 14 Feb. 2026
Definition of use
Verb
  • Eight of these units were connected to each other and a linear actuator was installed at one end of the line to apply the force needed to activate the elastocaloric effect.
    — IEEE Spectrum, IEEE Spectrum, 5 Feb. 2026
  • Regardless of the type, apply the fertilizer in late winter to prepare your tree for the upcoming growing season.
    — Emily Hayes, Martha Stewart, 5 Feb. 2026
Definition of apply
Verb
  • But the threat of extremist nihilistic groups goes beyond individual harm to exploited children, the federal memos obtained by CNN show.
    — Curt Devine, CNN Money, 10 Feb. 2026
  • But experts say that the state program has lacked thorough oversight and accountability, allowing a small group of manufacturers to exploit the program’s robust endowments.
    — Tony Briscoe, Los Angeles Times, 9 Feb. 2026
Definition of exploit
Verb
  • Russian sources indicate that Sarma can employ a range of existing and future 300 mm munitions, including high-explosive and guided rockets.
    — Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 9 Feb. 2026
  • In the past, New Delhi had opposed tariffs on sectors such as agriculture and dairy, which employ the bulk of the country's population.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 8 Feb. 2026
Definition of employ

Browse Nearby Words

utilizations
utilize
utilized
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Cite this Entry

“Utilize.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/utilize. Accessed 15 Feb. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on utilize

Nglish: Translation of utilize for Spanish Speakers

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