gebrauchen
Translation
to use, to make use of, to need
Examples
Kannst du das gebrauchen?
Can you use this?
Ich könnte deine Hilfe gut gebrauchen.
I could really use your help.
Grammar Patterns
to gebrauchen sth. (acc.) to use/need sth. I can really use this tool.
Similar Words
benutzen (to use), verwenden (to utilize), benötigen (to require)
Etymology
Prefix 'ge-' + 'brauchen' (to need). The prefix often intensifies the meaning, so it's like 'to really need and therefore use'.
Memory Tips
Think of it as a step beyond 'brauchen' (to need). If you need something ('brauchen'), you will probably 'gebrauchen' (make use of) it.