# utilization

/ˌjutəɫəˈzeɪʃən/ (US) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/utilization
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

the act of using something in an effective or practical way. You use this word when you want to sound more formal than just saying 'use'.

For teachers: the action of making practical and effective use of something. Often implies a strategic or systematic application of resources.

## Examples

- The company improved its utilization of solar energy.
- The hospital manager reviewed the utilization of the new operating rooms to ensure no space was wasted.
- Maximizing the utilization of existing infrastructure is often more cost-effective for developing cities than embarking on entirely new construction projects.

## Pitfalls

- Not "the utilization for the tools" but "the utilization of the tools" — Utilization is followed by the preposition 'of' when identifying the object being used.

## Usage notes

- Often paired with 'of' to specify the resource being used.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.