A1verb1K

Use

UK /["/juːz/","/ˈjuːzɪz/","/juːzd/","/ˈjuːzɪŋ/"]/US /["/juːz/","/ˈjuːzɪz/","/juːzd/","/ˈjuːzɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to do something with a machine, a method, an object, etc. for a particular purpose

In simple words: to do something with something else

Examples

I always use a pen to write my notes.
You can use this app to learn new words.
He decided to use his time wisely to finish the project.
We should not use plastic bags for the environment.
She forgot to use her umbrella and got wet in the rain.
They use the same strategy every year to win the competition.
Always use the right tools for the job.
Can you use this computer to access the internet?

Usage notes

Commonly used in both spoken and written English. Avoid using in very formal contexts without specifying what is being used and how.

Grammar pattern

use + object

Memory hint

Think of a user who utilizes tools.

Collocations

appropriately
correctly
properly
be easy to
be simple to
be difficult to
as
for
permission to use something
appropriately
correctly
properly
be easy to
be simple to
be difficult to
as
for
permission to use something
appropriately
correctly
properly
be easy to
be simple to
be difficult to
as
for
permission to use something

Synonyms

exploit

Antonyms

neglect
abandon
waste

Common mistakes

'Use' is often confused with 'used to' when talking about past habits.
Learners sometimes forget to conjugate 'use' correctly based on subject.
Incorrectly using 'use' as a noun instead of a verb.