verb

verwenden

use

Etwas nehmen, um damit eine Aufgabe zu erfüllen oder ein Ziel zu erreichen.

Definition & meaning

Verwenden means to use, make use of, or put something to a particular purpose. It can refer to objects, materials, methods, words, or resources.

It can also mean to devote or spend something, especially time or effort, on a purpose: Zeit für etwas verwenden means “to devote time to something.”

Grammar & word origin

Verwenden is a regular, inseparable verb:

Infinitive: verwenden
Present: er verwendet
Simple past: er verwendete
Perfect: er hat verwendet

It is commonly used with an object: ein Werkzeug verwenden (“to use a tool”). For a purpose, it often appears as etwas für etwas verwenden (“to use something for something”).

The verb combines the prefix ver- with wenden, historically connected with turning or directing something toward a use.

Synonyms & antonyms

benutzen — “to use”; often suggests practical, direct use of an object.
gebrauchen — “to use” or “make use of”; can sound a little more formal or emphasize putting something to use.
nutzen — “to use” or “benefit from”; often highlights usefulness or taking advantage of an opportunity.
einsetzen — “to deploy” or “put to use”; often used for tools, people, or methods in a specific role.
anwenden — “to apply”; especially common for methods, rules, or techniques.

Possible opposites include:

vermeiden — “to avoid,” rather than use something.
ungenutzt lassen — “to leave unused.”

Common phrases & collocations

ein Werkzeug verwenden — to use a tool
eine Methode verwenden — to use a method
ein Wort verwenden — to use a word
etwas für einen bestimmten Zweck verwenden — to use something for a particular purpose
Zeit auf etwas verwenden — to spend or devote time on something