utility
- 01 C1 Advanced
n.a small computer program designed to do a specific job, like cleaning up files.
n.a software application designed to perform a specific task related to the management of computer resources or system maintenance.
Simple“I downloaded a small utility to help me organize my desktop folders.”
In context“The system administrator ran a disk utility to repair the corrupted sectors on the primary server drive.”
UsageUsually refers to system-level tools rather than creative or entertainment software.
- 02 C1 Advanced
n.the amount of satisfaction or happiness a person gets from buying or using something.
n.the total satisfaction or benefit derived from consuming a good or service.
Simple“In this model, we measure how much utility a consumer gets from a second cup of coffee.”
In context“The theory of marginal utility suggests that the satisfaction gained from each additional unit of a product decreases as consumption increases.”
UsageUncountable in this abstract economic sense.
Synonyms - 03 C2 Proficiency
n.a small truck with an open back for carrying goods.
n.a vehicle designed for practical tasks, specifically one with an open tray for cargo.
Simple“He loaded the wood into the back of the utility and drove to the farm.”
In context“The rugged utility proved essential for transporting equipment across the uneven terrain of the outback.”
Teacher's tipIn Australia and New Zealand, this is almost always shortened to 'ute'.
- 04 B2 Upper Intermediate
adj.designed to be useful rather than beautiful.
adj.functional and practical rather than aesthetic or decorative.
Simple“The room was filled with plain utility furniture that was built to last.”
In context“The architect opted for a utility design, prioritizing ease of movement and durability over stylistic flourishes.”
SynonymsAntonyms
Usage expected utility · practical utility
“Nearly 130,000 utility customers statewide remained without power by midday Sunday, down from a peak of about 300,000, according to Woods and the online utility tracker PowerOutage.us.”
“The utility ordered water rationed again this summer.”
From Middle English utilite, from Old French utilite, utilitet (“usefulness”), from Latin ūtilitās, from uti (“to use”). By surface analysis, utile + -ity.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.