What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
instrumentalize
Example
The politician was accused of instrumentalizing the tragedy for his own political gain. [instrumentalize: verb]
Example
The company was criticized for instrumentalizing its employees to increase profits. [instrumentalizing: gerund or present participle]
utilize
Example
We can utilize this new technology to improve our productivity. [utilize: verb]
Example
The chef utilized her culinary skills to create a delicious meal. [utilized: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Utilize is more commonly used than instrumentalize in everyday language. Utilize is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while instrumentalize is less common and refers to a specific type of usage.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between instrumentalize and utilize?
Instrumentalize is more formal and academic than utilize. It is often used in scholarly or professional contexts, while utilize can be used in both formal and informal contexts.