use

Meanings

1. 1verbtransitive

   To employ something for a particular purpose.

   Grammar: Takes an object and often a purpose: use a key to open the door; the noun is pronounced with /s/.

   Patterns

   • use something
   • use something to do something
   • use something for something

   May I use your phone to call a cab?

   She uses a spreadsheet to track expenses.

   We used the old blankets for the shelter drive.

2. 2verbphrasal verb

   To consume or expend a supply so that little or none remains.

   Grammar: Part of use up; it means finish a supply, different from simply using something.

   Patterns

   • use something up
   • use up supplies/time
   • be used up

   The bakery used up the last of the flour.

   Don't use up all the hot water before my shower.

   By Friday, our patience was almost used up.

3. 3nouncountable or uncountable

   The act of using something, or the purpose for which something is used.

   Grammar: As a noun it is often uncountable for the act, countable for a purpose; pronunciation changes to /juːs/.

   Patterns

   • the use of something
   • make use of something
   • a use for something

   The use of helmets reduced head injuries.

   She made good use of the library before exams.

   I found a use for the empty jars in the garage.

Word forms

Common combinations

use time wisely

Use time wisely by reviewing notes every week.

use up

We used up the leftover rice in soup.

make use of

The interns made use of free training videos.

in use

The elevator is in use during the morning rush.

single-use

The campus banned single-use plastic bottles.

Synonyms and how they differ

employ

Employ is formal and means use for a purpose; use is neutral and far more frequent.

utilize

Utilize often means make practical use of something available; overusing it can sound pretentious when use is enough.

apply

Apply means use a method, rule, or skill in a particular case.

Opposites

Word family

useful adjective

Able to be used well; helpful.

useless adjective

Not helpful or not able to perform its purpose.

usable adjective

In a condition that allows use; also spelled useable.

user noun

A person who uses something, especially a device or service.

usage noun

The way something is used, or habitual language practice.

Commonly confused: use or usage?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “use”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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