UTILIZE Synonyms: 24 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

utilize

verb

ˈyü-tə-ˌlīz

Definition of utilize next

as in to use

to put into action or service we must utilize all the tools at our disposal

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

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

Examples 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 Meta hasn’t announced when Movie Gen will be available but Instagram is the first platform that the company has confirmed will utilize the text-to-video model. —

Jess Weatherbed, The Verge, 19 Dec. 2024 Both communities already utilize the same engineer, assessor, building inspector, garbage collection, and fire and emergency medical services, officials said in the FAQ. —

Jim Riccioli, Journal Sentinel, 19 Dec. 2024 The new flagship now utilizes a throw ratio of 0.21:1 (instead of 0.23:1), which translates to maximum throw size when positioned just 15.75 inches away (40 cm) from the wall or screen. —

New Atlas, 19 Dec. 2024 Like Jordan’s previous jet, the new one has a livery painted to match the pattern of the latest Air Jordan sneakers—although in a darker shade of gray—features his Jumpman logo and utilizes the tail number NL236MJ. —

J. George Gorant, Robb Report, 18 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for utilize

Recent Examples of Synonyms for utilize

Verb

One of Trump's top confidants, billionaire Elon Musk, who used his massive social media following to help kill the spending bill, even suggested Congress leave the government closed until Trump takes office next month, and a handful of Republican hardliners in the House agreed.

Sam Woodward, USA TODAY, 21 Dec. 2024
Finding Chiron’s gas In the new study, a team used data from the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) to study these TNOs that are a bit like floating time capsules.

Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 20 Dec. 2024