uses

"Uses" is a versatile word that works as both a noun and a verb. As a verb, it is simply the third-person singular form of "use." As a noun, it refers to the purposes or applications something has. Here are the most common senses you will encounter.

When you pick up a tool, an object, or a resource and do something with it, you are using it. Think of it as putting something to work for a purpose. 'She uses a pen' simply means she picks up a pen and writes with it.

everyday language · Modern, widely used

He uses his phone to take photos every day.

When something gets used up — like time, money, energy, or fuel — we say it is being 'used.' The focus here is on the resource being consumed or reduced.

everyday language · Modern, widely used

This old car uses a lot of petrol.

She uses most of her free time reading books.

3verbfigurativeto take advantage of a person

When someone treats another person only as a means to get what they want — without caring about that person's feelings — we say they are 'using' them. It has a negative, selfish meaning in this sense.

everyday language, relationships · Modern, widely used · figurative

She felt that he only called her when he needed help — he was just using her.

He realized his so-called friends were using him for his money.

When 'uses' is a noun, it refers to the different things you can do with something — its purposes or applications. For example, a knife has many uses: cutting bread, peeling fruit, and so on.

everyday language · Modern, widely used

This multi-tool has over twenty uses.

5nounfigurativethe value or benefit of something

Sometimes 'uses' (or 'use') refers to how helpful or valuable something is. If something has no use, it means it is not helpful or needed at all.

everyday language · Modern, widely used · figurative

Old maps still have their uses even in the age of GPS.