USE Meaning and
Definition
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Use, as a verb, refers to the act of employing or making practical use of something. It involves applying or utilizing an item, concept, or skill for a specific purpose or function. When someone uses an object, they put it into action or exploit its capabilities to achieve a desired outcome. For instance, you may use a computer to complete tasks, employ a tool to fix something, or utilize specific ingredients to cook a meal.
As a noun, use denotes the act or function of utilizing or the purpose for which something is employed. It refers to the advantage, benefit, or value gained from the application of an item, substance, or practice. For example, the use of sunscreen provides protection against the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays, or the use of a map can help navigate unfamiliar territories.
Use emphasizes the practical aspect of employing something, focusing on its usefulness rather than mere possession. It implies an active engagement with an object or concept and emphasizes the action taken to accomplish a particular goal or purpose. This term is versatile and is commonly employed in various contexts, ranging from everyday activities to professional fields such as technology, medicine, or education.
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• State of being employed to any purpose; occasion or need to employ; the quality which makes a thing proper for a purpose; benefit; advantage; habit; in law, profit; benefit.
• To employ; to apply or handle for some purpose; to consume to accustom; to render familiar by practice; to be accustomed; to be wont.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for USE *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for USE
Etymology of USE
The word "use" originated from the Old French word "user", which meant "to use, to employ, or to practice". This Old French word can be traced back to the Latin word "uti", which had a similar meaning of "to use, to utilize, or to take advantage of". The Latin "uti" ultimately derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "*ut-", meaning "to use, to rejoice in". Therefore, the etymology of "use" can be traced back to ancient Indo-European roots, indicating its long history in human language.
Idioms with the word USE
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use with
The idiom "use with" typically means to utilize or employ something in conjunction with another object, tool, or method in order to accomplish a particular task or achieve a desired outcome. It denotes the act of combining or associating two or more things to make the most effective use of them.
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have no use for (someone or something)
The idiom "have no use for (someone or something)" means to have no need or requirement for someone or something, to find someone or something useless or unimportant. It typically denotes a lack of interest, relevance, or value towards a person or thing.
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use one's head
The idiom "use one's head" means to think carefully or use one's intelligence and common sense to make rational decisions or solve problems. It refers to employing logical and critical thinking skills rather than acting impulsively or relying solely on emotions.
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use sm up
The idiom "use someone up" typically means to consume or exhaust someone mentally, emotionally, or physically. It suggests using someone's energy, resources, or talents to such an extent that they become entirely depleted or burnt out.
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use every trick in the book
The idiom "use every trick in the book" means to employ all possible strategies, strategies, or methods, often cunning or unscrupulous, to achieve one's goal or gain an advantage. It refers to using a wide range of techniques or tactics, typically those that are well-known or tried and true, to accomplish something.
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a fat lot of use
The idiom "a fat lot of use" is used to express extreme skepticism or disappointment regarding the usefulness or effectiveness of something or someone. It implies that the object or person in question is of little or no practical value.
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in use
The idiom "in use" refers to something that is currently being used or occupied by someone or being actively employed for a particular purpose.
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(one) could use (something)
The idiom "(one) could use (something)" means that someone would greatly benefit or be in need of something. It implies a desire or a necessity for the mentioned item or assistance.
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use sm elbow grease
The idiom "use some elbow grease" refers to applying physical effort or hard work to accomplish a task. It suggests investing more energy, determination, and manual labor to achieve a desired outcome.
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use by
The idiom "use by" refers to the specific date or time by which a product or item should be consumed or used in order to maintain its quality, freshness, or effectiveness. It is typically found on food products and indicates that it is not recommended to consume or use the item after the specified date for safety or quality reasons.
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it's no use
The idiom "it's no use" means that a particular action or effort will not yield any positive or desired results. It implies that the situation is hopeless or futile, and further attempts are pointless.
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use some elbow grease
The idiom "use some elbow grease" means to put in physical effort or work hard to get a task done. It implies using one's energy, strength, or manual labor to accomplish something, often involving tasks that require physical exertion or force.
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use foul language
The idiom "use foul language" means to use offensive, vulgar, or profane words or expressions while speaking.
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(it's/there's) no use crying over spilt milk
The idiom "(it's/there's) no use crying over spilt milk" means that there is no point in getting upset or regretful about something that has already happened and cannot be changed. It suggests that it is more constructive to accept the situation and move on rather than dwelling on past mistakes or misfortunes.
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be (of) no use
The idiom "be (of) no use" means that something or someone is not beneficial or helpful in a particular situation. It suggest that their presence or involvement is pointless or ineffective.
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use sth up
The idiom "use something up" means to consume or deplete an entire quantity or supply of something, leaving none remaining. It implies the complete exhaustion or utilization of a particular resource, product, or substance.
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come into/go out of use
The idiom "come into/go out of use" refers to the cycle of something becoming popular and widely utilized, or losing popularity and becoming less common or obsolete over time. It suggests the transition from an item, practice, or concept being regularly employed or relevant, to it falling out of common use or becoming outdated.
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Keep a thing seven years and you'll (always) find a use for it.
The idiom "Keep a thing seven years and you'll (always) find a use for it" suggests that if you hold onto something for a long enough period, you will eventually find a purpose or need for it. It implies that it is beneficial to hold onto things, as they may become useful or valuable in the future, even if they currently appear unnecessary or unnecessary.
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use your loaf
The idiom "use your loaf" means to use your intelligence, common sense, or thinking abilities in order to find a solution to a problem or make wise decisions. It is derived from the rhyming slang phrase "loaf of bread" which means "head" or "mind."
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what's the use (of doing something)
The idiom "what's the use (of doing something)" means that there is no point or advantage in doing a specific action or task because it is futile, ineffective, or pointless. It expresses a sense of resignation or frustration regarding the lack of utility or benefit in carrying out a certain action.
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lose the use of
The idiom "lose the use of" means to no longer have the ability or capability to utilize or avail oneself of something. It implies a loss of functionality, often due to damage, impairment, or other factors that render the thing or ability unusable or unavailable.
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what's the use of...?
The idiom "what's the use of...?" is used to express a sense of futility or frustration towards an action or situation. It implies that there is no point or benefit in engaging or continuing with something because the outcome is unlikely to be favorable or productive.
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have (a) use for someone or something
The idiom "have (a) use for someone or something" means to find someone or something helpful, valuable, or necessary for a specific purpose or situation. It implies that the person or thing serves a practical or beneficial function.
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no use to man or beast
The idiom "no use to man or beast" is a colloquial expression used to describe something or someone that is entirely useless or unhelpful. It implies that the subject lacks any practical value or utility and is unable to fulfill its intended purpose.
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use something as a carrot
When someone uses something as a carrot, it means they are using an enticing reward or incentive to motivate or encourage someone to do something. This phrase is derived from the concept of dangling a carrot in front of a stubborn animal's face to lead it in a desired direction.
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a fat lot of good/use
The idiom "a fat lot of good/use" means that something or someone is of no practical benefit or value. It is usually used to express disappointment or frustration when realizing that a particular action or object has not been helpful or effective in achieving the desired outcome.
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use as
The idiom "use as" refers to employing something or someone for a particular purpose or function. It implies utilizing someone or something in a manner that benefits or fulfills a specific objective.
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what use is...?, at what's the use of...?
The idiom "what use is...?, at what's the use of...?" is used to express doubt or frustration about the purpose or value of something. It implies questioning the practicality or relevance of a particular action, situation, or object. It reflects a sense of skepticism or disbelief about the usefulness or effectiveness of something.
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turn/use sth to good account
The definition of the idiom "turn/use something to good account" refers to making the best or most advantageous use of a situation, opportunity, or resource. It means to utilize or exploit something effectively or profitably for one's benefit or advantage.
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use sm or sth as an excuse
The idiom "use someone or something as an excuse" refers to the act of blaming or justifying one's actions or decisions by falsely attributing them to the actions or presence of someone or something else. It implies using a person, object, situation, or circumstance as a pretext to avoid taking responsibility or to justify inappropriate behavior.
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make use of
The idiom "make use of" means to utilize, employ, or take advantage of something in order to benefit from it or achieve a specific purpose or goal.
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have no use for
The idiom "have no use for" means to not have any positive regard or practical need for someone or something. It implies a lack of interest, utility, or value in relation to the subject at hand.
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close enough to use the same toothpick
The idiom "close enough to use the same toothpick" is used to describe a situation or scenario where two or more separate things or individuals are very similar or nearly identical. It implies that the differences or distinctions between them are so minimal or inconsequential that they can practically be considered the same.
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use for
The idiom "use for" refers to the specific purpose or application of something or someone. It indicates how or why something is utilized or the intended function it serves.
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use your head
The idiom "use your head" means to think carefully, use one's intelligence and common sense, or make rational decisions. It often implies the need to employ logical thinking or problem-solving skills.
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be (of) no use to man or beast
The expression "be (of) no use to man or beast" refers to something or someone that is completely useless or ineffective. It implies that the thing or person in question cannot fulfill any practical or beneficial purpose in any situation.
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have use for
The idiom "have use for" means to find something or someone valuable or beneficial in one's personal or professional life. It suggests that the person finds practical or functional value in the object or individual mentioned.
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be no good/use to man or beast
The idiom "be no good/use to man or beast" is typically used to describe something or someone that is entirely useless, ineffectual, or not functional in any way. It implies that the situation or individual is of no benefit or help to anyone or anything.
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put sth to (good) use
The idiom "put something to (good) use" means to utilize or employ something in a practical and beneficial way. It suggests making effective use of an object, skill, resource, or opportunity to achieve positive results or outcomes.
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be (of) (any/sm) use
The idiom "be (of) (any/some) use" means to be helpful or beneficial in a particular situation, or to have a practical purpose or value. It often refers to someone or something being able to provide assistance or contribute positively in achieving a desired outcome.
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use your head for more than a hatrack
The idiom "use your head for more than a hatrack" means to use one's brain or intelligence for something more productive or useful than simply holding a hat. It implies that a person should think critically, solve problems, or engage in meaningful activities instead of being passive or mindless. This expression encourages people to apply their mental abilities effectively and not waste their potential.
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use strong language
The idiom "use strong language" means to speak or write using forceful or explicit words with an intention to emphasize or convey strong emotions, opinions, or criticism. It refers to using words that are powerful, intense, or potentially offensive in order to make a point or assert a particular viewpoint.
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use up
The idiom "use up" means to deplete or exhaust the available quantity or supply of something by consuming or utilizing it completely.
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put to use
The idiom "put to use" means to use or utilize something effectively or actively in a practical manner. It implies taking an object, information, skills, or resources and applying them for a specific purpose or benefit.
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use your loaf, at use your head
The idiom "use your loaf, at use your head" means to think carefully, use one's intelligence, and make rational decisions. It encourages someone to employ their mental faculties, logic, and common sense in a particular situation. It emphasizes the importance of thinking critically and finding practical solutions.
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Keep a thing seven years and you'll find a use for it
The idiom "Keep a thing seven years and you'll find a use for it" implies that if you hold onto something for a long period of time, eventually you will find a need or purpose for it. It suggests that hanging onto items might be beneficial as they may come in handy or become valuable at some point in the future.
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It's no good/use crying over spilt milk.
The idiom "It's no good/use crying over spilt milk" means that it is pointless or unproductive to worry or be upset about something that has already happened and cannot be changed. It advises against dwelling on past mistakes or regrets and instead encourages accepting the situation and moving forward.
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use the bathroom
The idiom "use the bathroom" refers to the act of going to the restroom or toilet facilities in order to urinate or defecate.
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have no use for sb/sth
The idiom "have no use for someone or something" means to have no need, desire, or interest in someone or something. It suggests a lack of value, importance, or usefulness attributed to a person or thing.
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use as an excuse
The idiom "use as an excuse" refers to the act of providing a reason or justification for one's actions or behavior that may not be entirely truthful or valid, thus attempting to avoid responsibility or consequences. It implies the intention to shift blame or avoid culpability by offering an explanation that may be seen as deceptive or insincere.
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use a sledgehammer to crack a nut
The idiom "use a sledgehammer to crack a nut" means to use excessive or disproportionate force or effort to solve a simple or minor problem. It implies using a more drastic or extreme approach when a simpler or more appropriate solution would suffice.
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use someone or something as an excuse
The idiom "use someone or something as an excuse" means to blame or attribute one's actions or behaviors to someone or something else, often as a way to avoid taking responsibility or facing consequences. It implies using another person or thing as a justification or scapegoat for one's own actions or failures.
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use head
The idiom "use your head" means to think carefully or use one's intelligence to make logical decisions or solve problems. It implies using one's mental faculties or abilities to approach a situation in a practical and rational manner.
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make use of sm or sth
The idiom "make use of someone or something" means to utilize or take advantage of someone or something in a beneficial way. It implies using the resources or abilities of someone or something to achieve a specific purpose or benefit.
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it's no use crying over spilled milk
The idiom "it's no use crying over spilled milk" means that there is no point in getting upset or regretting something that has already happened and cannot be changed. It emphasizes the idea of accepting what has occurred and focusing on finding a solution or moving forward instead of dwelling on past mistakes or misfortunes.
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go out of use
The idiom "go out of use" refers to something that becomes obsolete or no longer commonly employed. It means that a particular object, practice, or concept is no longer utilized or relevant in contemporary times.
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come into use
The idiom "come into use" means to begin being used or to start being employed for a particular purpose. It refers to the action or process of something becoming utilized or put into practice.
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I, you, etc. could use a drink, etc.
The idiom "I, you, etc. could use a drink, etc." is an expression used to convey a strong desire or need for a drink, especially an alcoholic beverage. It suggests that the person is stressed, frustrated, or in need of some relaxation or relief. While it can be used figuratively to suggest needing a break or escape from a difficult situation, it is commonly used in a lighthearted or humorous manner.
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make (good) use of sth
The idiom "make (good) use of something" means to utilize or employ something in an effective or efficient way for a specific purpose or benefit. It implies that one is making the most out of a resource, opportunity, or item, ensuring its value is maximized.
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use up sth
The idiom "use up something" means to consume, deplete, or exhaust something completely or entirely, so that none of it remains. It implies that the entire quantity or amount of something has been utilized.
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Could I use your powder room?
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use before
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use over
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Use loaf
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a fat lot of good/help/use
The idiom "a fat lot of good/help/use" is used to express that something or someone is not helpful or useful in a particular situation. It implies that the thing or person in question is unlikely to make any significant positive impact.
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a fat lot of good, use, etc.
This phrase is typically used to indicate that something or someone is of little to no practical value or benefit. It implies that despite good intentions or efforts, the outcome is ultimately futile or disappointing.
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try, use, etc. every trick in the book
To try every possible method or strategy to achieve a desired outcome, especially if they are unconventional or unusual.
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Can I use your powder room?
The idiom "Can I use your powder room?" is a polite way of asking to use someone's restroom or bathroom.
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no use, it's
The idiom "no use, it's" refers to a situation or outcome that is futile or ineffective, often used to convey the pointlessness of trying to achieve a particular goal or result.
Similar spelling words for USE
Conjugate verb Use
CONDITIONAL PERFECT
I
would have used
you
would have used
he/she/it
would have used
we
would have used
they
would have used
I
would have use
you
would have use
he/she/it
would have use
we
would have use
they
would have use
CONDITIONAL PERFECT PROGRESSIVE
I
would have been using
you
would have been using
he/she/it
would have been using
we
would have been using
they
would have been using
CONDITIONAL PRESENT
I
would use
you
would use
he/she/it
would use
we
would use
they
would use
CONDITIONAL PRESENT PROGRESSIVE
I
would be using
you
would be using
he/she/it
would be using
we
would be using
they
would be using
FUTURE
I
will use
you
will use
he/she/it
will use
we
will use
they
will use
FUTURE CONTINUOUS
I
will be using
you
will be using
he/she/it
will be using
we
will be using
they
will be using
FUTURE PERFECT
I
will have used
you
will have used
he/she/it
will have used
we
will have used
they
will have used
FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
will have been using
you
will have been using
he/she/it
will have been using
we
will have been using
they
will have been using
IMPERATIVE
you
use
we
let´s use
to use
PAST CONTINUOUS
I
was using
you
were using
he/she/it
was using
we
were using
they
were using
PAST PARTICIPLE
used
PAST PERFECT
I
had used
you
had used
he/she/it
had used
we
had used
they
had used
PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
had been using
you
had been using
he/she/it
had been using
we
had been using
they
had been using
PRESENT
I
use
you
use
he/she/it
uses
we
use
they
use
PRESENT CONTINUOUS
I
am using
you
are using
he/she/it
is using
we
are using
they
are using
PRESENT PARTICIPLE
using
PRESENT PERFECT
I
have used
you
have used
he/she/it
has used
we
have used
they
have used
PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
have been using
you
have been using
he/she/it
has been using
we
have been using
they
have been using
PRESENT SUBJUNCTIVE
he/she/it
use
SIMPLE PAST
I
used
you
used
he/she/it
used
we
used
they
used
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