utility
Pronunciation
Noun
B2 Upper-intermediate
Quick answer
The quality of being useful, or a public service such as electricity, gas, or water.
Synonyms and antonyms
Synonyms
usefulness
Antonyms
uselessness
Usage notes
'Utility' has a specific technical meaning in economics too, where it refers to the satisfaction or benefit a person gets from consuming something.
Test yourself
Which word fits the gap? "Despite its odd shape, the tool has surprising _____ in tight spaces."
Answer: utility
In your own words, what does "utility" mean?
The quality of being useful, or a public service such as electricity, gas, or water.
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