utilizar

Senses

1. 1.

   to use

   to employ something for a purpose

2. 2.

   to utilize

   to make practical use of something, especially resources

Examples

• "Vou utilizar o computador para fazer o trabalho."

  I'm going to use the computer to do the assignment.

• "A empresa utiliza tecnologia de ponta em seus processos."

  The company uses cutting-edge technology in its processes.

• "É importante utilizar os recursos naturais de forma sustentável."

  It's important to use natural resources in a sustainable way.

Usage

"Utilizar" is slightly more formal than "usar" (to use), and is commonly used in writing, technical contexts, and formal speech. Both are interchangeable in most contexts, but "usar" is more common in everyday conversation. Common collocations include "utilizar recursos" (to use resources), "utilizar ferramentas" (to use tools), and "utilizar dados" (to use data).