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Use vs. Utilize

Which is correct: use or utilize? The answer depends on the context. The word utilize carries an additional shade of meaning, suggesting that you’re using something in a way it’s not ordinarily employed. For example, you would use a stapler to staple, but you might utilize a stapler as a paperweight. In any case, use is your safest bet. This is part of a complete episode.

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  • When asked, “May I utilize your stapler?” One could respond “What are you going to do with it?”

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