Which one is correct?
"used the data" or "utilized the data"?

Question

Which one is correct?
"used the data" or "utilized the data"?

TextRanch: The best way to perfect your writing.

Discover why 1,062,726 users count on TextRanch to get their English corrected!

One of our experts will correct your English.

100% Human-Powered Editing!

This phrase is a simple and common way to express the action of employing data for a specific purpose.

Examples:

We used the data to create the report.
She used the data to make informed decisions.
They used the data to improve their processes.

Alternatives:

utilized the data
employed the data
made use of the data
leveraged the data
applied the data

This phrase is more formal and professional, suitable for business or academic contexts.

Examples:

The researchers utilized the data for their study.
The company utilized the data to improve their products.
The team utilized the data analysis tools effectively.

Alternatives:

used the data
employed the data
made use of the data
leveraged the data
applied the data

Both "used the data" and "utilized the data" are correct phrases, but they have slightly different levels of formality. "Used the data" is more commonly used in everyday language, while "utilized the data" is a more formal and professional way of expressing the same idea.

Last Updated: March 24, 2024