What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
employ
Example
The company decided to employ a new marketing strategy to increase sales. [employ: verb]
Example
We need to employ all available resources to finish this project on time. [employ: verb]
Example
The employer decided to offer full-time employment to the candidate. [employment: noun]
use
Example
I use my phone to check my emails every morning. [use: verb]
Example
She used her knowledge of programming to develop a new software application. [used: past tense]
Example
We can use this approach to solve the problem more efficiently. [use: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Use is more commonly used than employ in everyday language. Use is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts and situations, while employ is more specific and often used in a professional or business context.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between employ and use?
Employ is typically associated with a more formal or serious tone, while use is more neutral and versatile, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.