Many people interchange “use” and “utilize.” Some feel that “utilize” sounds fancier or smarter. However, most cases, “use” is the better choice.“Utilize” means “make use of,” as in when you are using an object for something other than its intended purpose.
Examples:
When we are out of plastic spoons in the kitchen, I utilize a fork to eat my yogurt.
(While this is not the fork’s intended use, I am making use of it.)
Frank utilized his laptop as a pillow and took a nap at his desk.
(His laptop is not supposed to be used a pillow, but he made use of it as such.)
Please use the form on the website to register for the event.
(This is the form’s intended use, so use it.)
The Bottom Line:
While it doesn’t sound as fancy, “use” is the most appropriate word almost every time. Think twice before using “utilize.”
9 comments:
Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
Excellent tip! Thank you!
Utilize is so abused I had to refresh my brain cells.
It is in the same category with me/myself as the "intelligent" bad choice.
Thanks for the great explanation. I thought I was the only one that cringed by the frequent use of "utilize."
One of the first things we learn when we begin a study of copywriting is to use short, simple words whenever we can.
In most cases, trying to appear intellectual is a bad idea and can "kill your copy."
Good copy is conversational, and how many people would hand you something and say "Here, utilize this?"
In each of the examples given (fork, laptop as pillow), the word "use" would have worked even better.
Churchill said "Always prefer the short word to the long." Nailed it.
Useful information!! Thanks.
To make this point I often tell people "don't utilize and abutilize" this word. Helps put it in context. :)
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