use
noun
Definitions of use noun
purpose
- B1CountableUncountable
a purpose for which something is utilized
This multi-functional kitchen tool has various uses in cooking.
Don't discard the old newspapers; they might still have a use in craft projects.
I don't need to buy a new printer; I have no use for it at the moment.
- A2Uncountable
the act of utilizing something, or a period during which something is in operation or available for use
She was able to put her marketing experience to good use in her new job.
Be sure to wear gloves when the oven is in use.
This is a smart screen that can transform into a mirror when not in use.
consumption
- CountableUncountable
the process of diminishing something by burning, consuming, or involving it in a chemical reaction
During fermentation, sugar is broken down into alcohol without the use of oxygen.
The company is committed to a more efficient use of resources.
word
- Countable
one specific meaning of a word, or a manner in which it is used
Can you list all the uses of the word "run"?
Phrases of use noun
- make use of something
To utilize something that is accessible or at one's disposal.
• This software is designed to allow users to make full use of its various features.
- the use of something
The permission or ability to utilize something.
• We have the use of their conference room when they are not using it.
verb
Definitions of use verb
purpose
- A1Transitive
to employ something, such as a tool, skill, or facility, for a specific purpose
This knife has been used; could you hand me a clean one?
Use a ruler and a pencil to draw straight lines.
This project provides an opportunity to use the skills I have learned.
reduce
- B1Transitive
to diminish the quantity of or to exhaust something through consumption, burning, writing, or chemical reaction
We've nearly used all of the coffee beans; could you go buy some?
Is he still using painkillers to manage the pain?
Don't worry about using up all of the oil; I'll purchase more tomorrow.
word
- B2Transitive
to employ a particular word or phrase when speaking or writing
"Elevator" is used in American English, while "lift" is used in British English.
That is a phrase she often uses to express her thoughts.
take advantage
- C2Transitivedisapproving
to exploit a person or situation for one's own advantage
He's just using you; he will steal your ideas and then take credit for them.
Perhaps we can use their mistake to achieve our objectives.
Phrases of use verb
- use to
In negative sentences and questions, 'use to' is used instead of 'used to' after the auxiliary verb 'did' or 'didn't'.
• Did they use to go hiking every weekend?
Idioms
- What's the use of...?
used to question the point of worrying about something when it will not lead to a positive outcome.
• He’s already made his decision, so what’s the use of worrying now?
- use your head
Used to tell someone, often with a hint of annoyance, to think more carefully about what they are doing.
• You should have used your head and brought the laundry in when it started raining.
- be (of) (any/some) use
To have a practical purpose or to be helpful or beneficial.
• This old map is of no use to us for finding our way in the forest.
- be (of) no use
To be not useful, helpful, or possible.
• Trying to convince him to change his mind is no use; he is very stubborn.
- what's the use of...?
This phrase is used to express the futility of worrying about a situation, suggesting that it will not lead to a positive outcome.
• I've done my best; what's the use of worrying now?
- could use something
Used to express that someone would like or needs something.
• I could really use a coffee to wake me up right now.
Phrasal Verbs of use
- use something up
to completely consume or deplete a supply of something
• I used up this bottle of oil and need to buy another one.