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use

v. · n.
US //ˈjus// use
  1. 1 to employ something (v.)
    A1 Beginner

    to do something with a tool, a machine, or a method to finish a task.

    to employ something as a means of accomplishing a purpose or achieving a result. Transitive; requires a direct object.

    Example

    You can use this sharp knife to cut the vegetables for the soup.

    Example

    The researchers decided to use a new statistical model to analyze the data collected during the three-year study.
    Pitfall
    I am using to wake up early.
    I am used to waking up early.

    Do not confuse the verb 'use' (to employ) with the adjective phrase 'be used to' (to be accustomed to).

  2. 2 to consume or exhaust (v.)
    A2 Elementary

    to finish a supply of something until there is none left.

    to consume or expend a limited resource or supply. Often used with the particle 'up'.

    Example

    We used all the milk this morning, so we need to buy more.

    Example

    The manufacturing process uses up a significant amount of water, leading to concerns about local environmental sustainability.
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  1. 3 to treat someone (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    to behave toward someone in a specific way, often unfairly.

    to treat or behave toward a person in a particular manner; often carries a negative connotation of exploitation.

    Example

    He felt that his friends were just using him for his money.

    Example

    The biography suggests that the monarch used his advisors as mere tools to further his own political ambitions.
  2. 4 the act of employing (n.)
    A2 Elementary

    the act of using something or the state of being used.

    the act of employing something or the state of being employed for a purpose. Pronounced with a /s/ sound, unlike the verb.

    Example

    The use of mobile phones is not allowed during the exam.

    Example

    The widespread use of renewable energy has significantly reduced the carbon footprint of the industrial district.
    • disuse
  3. 5 purpose or function (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    the reason why something exists or the job it is meant to do.

    the purpose for which something is used; a specific function or application.

    Example

    This old building has found a new use as a community center.

    Example

    Engineers are still discovering new uses for this synthetic material in the aerospace industry.
  4. 6 usefulness or benefit (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    the quality of being helpful or providing an advantage.

    the quality of being useful or providing a benefit; often used in the phrase 'of use'.

    Example

    I hope this information is of some use to you in your research.

    Example

    The manual was of little use to the technicians because it lacked diagrams for the updated hardware configuration.
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