use
8 synonyms and 0 antonyms for use, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To employ something for a particular purpose.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use use
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old French user, "to use, employ," from Latin ūtor, "to use."
Full origin of use →Frequently asked questions
What does “use” mean?
The word “use” means to employ something for a particular purpose. In plain terms, to put something to work for a purpose — or, as a noun, the act or purpose of doing so.
How do you pronounce “use”?
“Use” is pronounced yoos (/jus/ in IPA).
How do you use “use” in a sentence?
Here is “use” used in a sentence: “She used a hammer to fix the loose shelf.”
What part of speech is “use”?
Depending on how it is used, “use” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “use” come from?
The word “use” comes from Latin. From Old French user, "to use, employ," from Latin ūtor, "to use.".
Is “use” a common word?
“Use” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.
How many meanings does “use” have?
“Use” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to employ something for a particular purpose.
What is the difference between use and utilize?
The two are close, but 'use' is the plain, everyday word for employing something for its purpose. 'Utilize' is more formal and often implies making practical or clever use of something, especially in a way it wasn't originally meant for. In most sentences, 'use' is simpler and reads better than 'utilize.'
What is the difference between 'use' and 'used to'?
'Use' is the present-tense verb meaning to employ something. 'Used to' is a separate expression describing a past habit or state that no longer applies — 'I used to walk to school.' Though they share spelling, 'used to' points to something that was once true but has since changed.
What is an example of 'use' in a sentence?
You might say, 'I use a knife to cut bread,' or 'She uses her phone to check the time.' In each case, something is being employed for a specific purpose. The verb applies to tools, skills, language, or resources — anything put to work to achieve a result.