utility

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun

n. a service that everyone needs, such as electricity, water, or gas.

n. a commodity or service, such as electricity, water, or public transport, provided by a physical infrastructure network.

“The monthly cost of utilities like heating and water has gone up recently.”

“The city council met with representatives from the local water utility to discuss upgrading the aging sewage infrastructure.”

C1 · Advanced Countable noun Computing Technical

n. a small computer program that helps you manage your system or perform a specific task.

n. a software program designed to perform a specific task related to the management of computer hardware or software.

“I used a disk utility to clean up the old files on my laptop.”

“The operating system includes several built-in utilities for monitoring network performance and managing user permissions.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate

adj. made for a practical use rather than for looking good.

adj. designed for functional use rather than aesthetic appeal; utilitarian in nature.

“She bought a utility jacket because it had many pockets for her tools.”

“The architect designed a utility room behind the kitchen to house the laundry machines and the central heating unit.”

C2 · Proficiency Countable noun Dialect

n. a small truck with an open back for carrying goods.

n. a vehicle designed for carrying small loads, typically with an open tray behind the passenger cabin.

“He loaded the timber into the back of his utility and drove to the site.”

“In rural Australia, the utility is an essential tool for farmers who need to transport equipment across rough terrain.”