use

The act of doing something with a tool, material, method, or other resource.

• Regular use keeps the machine working well.
• We should reduce our use of water.
• The teacher explained the safe use of scissors.

How to use it: the use of something (The use of phones is restricted here.)

Similar words: usage, utilization

Opposites: nonuse

Common phrases: use of something, regular use, safe use

A purpose for which something can help you do a job or achieve a result.

• This tool has many uses.
• Can you find a use for these boxes?
• We put the spare room to good use.

How to use it: a use for something (We found a use for the empty jars.); put something to use (She put her new skills to good use.)

Similar words: application, purpose

Common phrases: practical use, use for something, put to use

The help or value something offers, or the reason for doing something.

• This map is no use.
• What is the use of arguing?
• The old notes were still of use to me.

How to use it: be of use to someone (This information may be of use to you.); it is no use doing something (It is no use shouting at the screen.)

Similar words: benefit, value, point

Common phrases: no use, of use, any use

One occasion when someone does something with a tool, product, or other thing.

• Wash it after each use.
• The bottle holds enough soap for twenty uses.
• These gloves are designed for a single use.

Common phrases: single use, one use, after each use

To do something with a tool, material, method, or other thing for a particular purpose.

• Can I use your phone?
• She used a knife to cut the bread.
• We use the kitchen table for homework.

How to use it: use something to do something (Use this cloth to clean the table.); use something for something/doing something (We use this room for meetings.)

Similar words: employ, utilize

Common phrases: use a computer, use something for, use something to

To take some or all of a supply, such as money, energy, or food.

• This car uses little fuel.
• We used all the milk yesterday.
• How much electricity does the heater use?

How to use it: use something on something (We used our savings on repairs.)

Similar words: consume, spend

Opposites: save

Common phrases: use water, use fuel, use money

To get what you want from someone while ignoring their feelings or needs.

• He only used me.
• She used him to pay her bills.
• Are you using your friends for free rides?

How to use it: use someone for something (He used her for her money.); use someone to do something (She used her friends to get free tickets.)

Similar words: exploit, take advantage of

Common phrases: use someone, use someone for, use someone to