Do you use “utilize” in technical documents instead of “use”? In most cases, we recommend using the word “use” following the Handbook of Technical Writing and plain language principles. Use will almost always be clearer and less pretentious.
When is “utilize” acceptable? According to the Chicago Manual of Style, you can justify “utilize” in the following instances:
- Unconventional Application: Using an object for something other than its intended design. For example, “She utilized a forklift to lift personnel instead of using an aerial lift.”
- Strategic Deployment: Emphasizing that a resource is put into use for a practical, effective advantage. For example, “Investigators discussed solving notorious cold case crimes utilizing genealogy websites that maintain DNA analysis information.”
In these two examples, “utilize” emphasizes deliberate decision making of employing something for a specific practical, or in the first example, impractical purpose. You can substitute “use” in both sentences, but “utilize” provides better context.
So, yes, you can use “utilize” but use it sparingly to preserve its impact when needed!
