Use: meaning, definitions and examples
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use
[juːz ]
Definition
in everyday conversation
To employ for some purpose; put into service; make use of. To avail oneself of; apply to one's own purposes. To expend or consume by putting to use; use up. To treat with a particular way of using.
Synonyms
apply, employ, utilise, utilization, utilize.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| use |
General context for making use of something in everyday or informal situations. It's the most common and straightforward term.
|
| utilize |
When making efficient or effective use of something, usually in a formal, technical, or academic context.
|
| employ |
When using something strategically or with intent, often found in business, academic, or formal contexts.
|
| utilise |
Similar to ‘utilize,' used more in British English and often implies using something efficiently or effectively, usually in formal contexts.
|
| apply |
When making use of something in a specific context, often following a set of rules or methods. Commonly used in more formal or technical contexts.
|
| utilization |
A noun form to describe the act of making something function or operate. Often found in technical, business, or formal reports.
|
Examples of usage
- He uses his car to commute to work every day.
- She uses her free time to volunteer at the local shelter.
- I need to use up all the vegetables before they go bad.
- It's important to use caution when handling chemicals.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Latin 'uti', meaning 'to use', showing its long-standing importance in language.
- 'Use' has evolved through Old French and Middle English before reaching its modern English form.
- It reflects not only action but also the concept of utility, shaping the way people interact with objects.
Psychology
- Cognitive psychology studies how people determine the function of objects, impacting the choice of tools based on perceived use.
- Understanding the use of objects develops problem-solving skills, enabling better decision-making in everyday tasks.
- The ability to generalize use from one item to another is a vital cognitive skill that aids learning.
Cultural Significance
- In various cultures, the act of using resources is tied to sustainability and conservation, emphasizing respect for nature.
- Use can also denote social status, as certain items signify wealth and prestige when used in specific contexts.
- Art often explores themes of use, questioning how objects define relationships and human experiences.
Technology
- In computer science, 'use' refers to application programming interfaces (APIs) that allow software to communicate and function effectively.
- The rise of the internet has transformed how we use resources, making information accessible at an unprecedented scale.
- Smart technologies are designed with 'user-friendly' interfaces that enhance the ease of use, prioritizing user experience.
Literature
- Many literary works examine the theme of 'use', with characters confronting the morality of exploiting resources or people.
- Shakespeare used concepts of use and misuse to illustrate social hierarchies and relationships in his plays.
- In poetry, the term often symbolizes deeper meanings, where the act of use reflects emotional and philosophical insights.
Translations
Translations of the word "use" in other languages:
🇵🇹 usar
- utilizar
- empregar
🇮🇳 प्रयोग करना
🇩🇪 benutzen
- verwenden
- nutzen
🇮🇩 menggunakan
🇺🇦 використовувати
🇵🇱 używać
- stosować
- korzystać
🇯🇵 使う (tsukau)
🇫🇷 utiliser
- employer
- se servir de
🇪🇸 usar
- utilizar
- emplear
🇹🇷 kullanmak
🇰🇷 사용하다 (sayonghada)
🇸🇦 استخدام (istikhdaam)
🇨🇿 používat
🇸🇰 používať
🇨🇳 使用 (shǐyòng)
🇸🇮 uporabljati
🇮🇸 nota
🇰🇿 пайдалану (paydalaný)
🇬🇪 გამოყენება (gamoyeneba)
🇦🇿 istifadə etmək
🇲🇽 usar
- utilizar
- emplear