utilize
Utilize
Just because you see “utilize” in print or hear it in the office does not make it a good word choice.
“Utilize” is an overblown word that means “to use.”
It has no other meaning, not even a subtle one, than does “use.”
Using “utilize” rather than “use” can make you appear pompous to many.
Style books recommend not writing “utilize.” Ever.
Sometimes, writers for business, corporate, academic or government publications will use overblown language in trying to sound more “profound,” substantial or technical.
To achieve this, they often choose a word like “utilize” instead of “use,” just as they create needless technojargon to try to sound impressive. “Utilize” contributes nothing of value.
This pumping up of language by using needlessly big words looks foolish and pompous in the eyes of many knowledgable readers.