Spanish word

utilizar

Pronunciation

IPA/utiliˈθaɾ/

Meaning

  • verbuse

Example

¿Puedo utilizar tu cargador?

Can I use your charger?

Illustration for utilizar (use)

More examples

Puedes utilizar este recurso para practicar vocabulario.

You can use this resource to practice vocabulary.

Core concept

Deliberate employment of a method, system, or resource toward a defined goal.

Common phrases

  • utilizar para

    use for

  • utilizar recursos

    use resources

  • utilizar el tiempo

    use the time

Similar words

usar: Uses an object or tool in its intended, everyday way, typically in casual contexts.
servir: Is suitable or useful for a particular practical purpose or role.
emplear: Uses someone or something as the chosen means to perform a task.
aplicar: Applies a method, technique, or rule to a specific situation or problem.

Definition in Spanish

Aplicar o poner en funcionamiento un medio, técnica o recurso para cumplir una finalidad determinada, con matiz de uso consciente o intencional.

Word origin

The verb derives from Latin utilis 'useful' via medieval Latin utilizare, with the Spanish -izar suffix producing the modern verb utilizar.

Usage tips

  • In casual requests and speech usar sounds more natural for personal items and actions, whereas utilizar gives a more formal or technical tone.

Other meanings

  • make use ofverb

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word