verwenden
Translation
to use, to apply, to utilize, to spend (time, effort)
Examples
Ich verwende dieses Wort oft.
I use this word often.
Man kann Holz zum Heizen verwenden.
You can use wood for heating.
Er verwendet viel Zeit auf sein Hobby.
He spends a lot of time on his hobby.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) ((for sth.)) to use sth. for sth. We use wood for building the house.
((sth.)) ((for sth. / to do sth.)) to use sth. for sth. / to do sth. You can use this device for various purposes.
((sth.)) ((as sth.)) to use sth. as sth. She uses the room as an office.
Similar Words
Etymology
From the prefix `ver-` (indicating completion or action upon an object) and `wenden` (to turn). It literally means 'to turn something over for a purpose'.
Memory Tips
Think of a 'vending' machine. You 'use' it by turning knobs or pushing buttons. Connect `wenden` (to turn) with this idea of using.