'Utilize' is typically used to suggest a new, profitable, or practical use for something. But English speakers have been finding -ize useful since the 16th century, and words that employ it come in handy every day (for example, authorize, capitalize, realize, and stabilize).

Is utilize grammatically correct?

Both words come from the Latin root util–, but use is the much older word in English. ... Though derived from the same Latin root, its origin is much closer to that of “utility” and has a narrower definition. Therefore, use can always be used, but utilize should only be used when indicating a creative use.

Why do people say utilized instead of used?

Utilize means to use in a way that consumes what is used, or change it into something else (as in nutrient utilization). Utilize means to get a result effectively; use doesn't carry the “effective” connotation. ... Utilize is neutral, while use has a negative connotation (as in “I feel used”).