Another Word for Use: 19 Synonyms with Examples
As a verb, “use” means to put something into service; as a noun, it means the act or purpose of using. Many writers repeat it, and a sharper verb often helps.
As a verb: to put something into service
- employ
- utilise
- apply
- operate
- work
- exercise
- draw on
- make use of
As a verb: to take an amount of something
- consume
- spend
- expend
- go through
- exhaust
As a noun: the purpose or value of something
Need a different word?Look up any word in the synonym finder →
How they differ
Synonyms share a meaning, not always a tone. Here is when to pick each of the main options.
- employ
- Formal; common for methods, techniques and people.
- utilise
- Often just a longer way to say “use”. Keep it for making practical use of something not designed for the job.
- apply
- For putting a rule, skill or substance to work in a specific case.
- draw on
- Means using a store of something, such as experience, savings or sources.
- consume
- Means using up, especially energy, food or time.
Example sentences
- employ: The study employs both interviews and surveys.
- apply: Apply the same rule to every case.
- draw on: The novel draws on her childhood in Lagos.
- consume: Older fridges consume far more electricity.
- purpose: What is the purpose of this button?
Opposite of use
- waste
- discard
- abandon
More from WordNet
Less common or more specialised words WordNet lists for other senses of “use”. Check the meaning before you use one.
verb: habituate
noun: usage, utilisation, employment, role, consumption
WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Used under the WordNet licence.
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “use”?
The most useful alternatives are “employ”, “utilise”, “apply”, “operate”, “work”. For the main sense (to put something into service), “employ” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “employ” and “utilise”?
employ: Formal; common for methods, techniques and people. utilise: Often just a longer way to say “use”. Keep it for making practical use of something not designed for the job.
What is the opposite of “use”?
Common antonyms are “waste”, “discard”, “abandon”.