verwenden
Translation
to use, to utilize, to apply, to spend
Examples
Kann ich deinen Stift verwenden?
Can I use your pen?
Er verwendet viel Zeit für sein Hobby.
He spends a lot of time on his hobby.
Dieses Wort wird selten verwendet.
This word is rarely used.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) to use sth. Kann ich deinen Stift verwenden?
((sth.)) for ((sth.)) to use sth. for sth. Sie verwendet Mehl für den Kuchen.
((sth.)) to do ((sth.)) to use sth. to do sth. Er verwendet das Holz zum Heizen.
Similar Words
Synonyms: benutzen, gebrauchen, nutzen (all mean 'to use'); Antonym: verschwenden (to waste)
Etymology
From the prefix `ver-` and the verb `wenden` (to turn). The literal sense is 'to turn something towards a purpose'.
Memory Tips
It's a slightly more formal alternative to `benutzen`. Think of 'turning' (`wenden`) something over (`ver-`) to find a use for it.