utilize
YOO-tih-lyz
Utilize (verb) means to make practical use of something. Example: “The factory utilizes solar power to cut energy costs.”
verb
1
To make practical use of something.
"The factory utilizes solar power to cut energy costs."
"She utilized her language skills to land the translation job."
"Teachers can utilize free online tools to make their lessons more interesting for pupils."
How to use utilize
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA more formal way of saying "use."
Common mistake
In everyday writing, "use" is usually simpler and just as accurate — "utilize" can sound needlessly formal or bureaucratic.
UK vs US
"Utilize" is the standard US and Canadian spelling, and is also accepted in Oxford British English; elsewhere in British English "utilise" is more common.
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- utilizes
- Past tense
- utilized
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The factory _____ solar power to cut energy costs.
Etymology
From French utiliser, ultimately from Latin utilis ("useful").
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for utilize
See all rhymes for utilize →Frequently asked questions
What does “utilize” mean?
The word “utilize” means to make practical use of something. In plain terms, a more formal way of saying "use.".
How do you pronounce “utilize”?
“Utilize” is pronounced YOO-tih-lyz (/ˈju.tə.laɪz/ in IPA).
How do you use “utilize” in a sentence?
Here is “utilize” used in a sentence: “The factory utilizes solar power to cut energy costs.”
What part of speech is “utilize”?
“Utilize” is a verb.
Where does the word “utilize” come from?
The word “utilize” comes from Latin. From French utiliser, ultimately from Latin utilis ("useful").
Is “utilize” a common word?
“Utilize” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between "utilize" and "use"?
"Utilize" and "use" both mean to make practical use of something, but "utilize" often carries a slightly more formal or technical tone and can suggest putting something to a purpose it wasn't originally designed for. In most everyday writing, "use" is simpler and equally correct.
Is "utilize" more formal than "use"?
Yes, "utilize" tends to appear in formal, academic, or business writing, while "use" is the standard, neutral choice for everyday speech and writing. Many style guides recommend "use" over "utilize" when either word fits, since it is shorter and less pretentious.
When should you say "utilize" instead of "use"?
"Utilize" fits best when emphasizing that something is being made practically useful, especially in technical, scientific, or organizational contexts, such as "utilize existing resources." Outside of that context, "use" usually communicates the same idea more directly.
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