use
use Lexical Profile
use Game Scores & Validity
• noun
The action of employing something for a particular purpose, or the state of being actively employed.
"The widespread use of solar panels has significantly reduced the town's reliance on fossil fuels."
The value, advantage, or practical purpose for which something is suited or employed.
"Having a dictionary on your desk is of great use when learning to write in a second language."
The ability, power, or permission to move, operate, or benefit from something.
"After months of dedicated physical therapy, the patient fully regained the use of his injured knee."
Habitual or customary practice, especially the characteristic way in which a word or language is employed.
"Many idiomatic expressions have passed out of modern use over the last century."
• verb
To take, hold, or deploy something as a means of accomplishing a purpose or achieving a result.
"Architects use specialized computer software to design earthquake-resistant buildings."
To take or consume an amount of a resource, material, or supply.
"Modern energy-efficient appliances use significantly less electricity than older models."
To treat someone in an unfair or calculating manner in order to gain a personal advantage.
"He realized too late that his supposed friends were only using him for his industry connections."
To have a need for or be able to benefit from something (typically preceded by 'could').
"After working straight through the weekend, the entire research team could really use a break."
Word Nuance & Usage
The word 'use' is a classic heteronym: as a verb, the final consonant is voiced (/juːz/, rhyming with 'lose'), whereas as a noun, it is unvoiced (/juːs/, rhyming with 'loose'). However, in the past-habitual construction 'used to' (e.g., 'I used to live here'), the verb assimilates to an unvoiced /juːst tuː/ sound.
• Rhymes for use
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in Middle English from Anglo-Norman and Old French user (to employ, practice) and us (custom, practice), descending from Latin ūsus, the past participle of ūtī ('to make use of, profit by, enjoy').