In technical writing, try not to use the word "utilize" in an informal fashion, use "use" instead. In Computer Science, it is acceptable to use the word utilize only when something is making use of a resource that would otherwise be idle. E.g. "The disk cache utilized main memory to enhance performance." See also: The difference between use and utilize.

U"til*ize (?), v. t. [imp. & p. p. Utilized (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Utilizing (?).] [Cf. F. utiliser.]

To make useful; to turn to profitable account or use; to make use of; as, to utilize the whole power of a machine; to utilize one's opportunities.

In former ages, the mile-long corridors, with their numerous alcoves, might have been utilized as . . . dungeons. Hawthorne.

© Webster 1913.