This handout explains the most common uses of three kinds of punctuation: semicolons (;), colons (:), and dashes (—). After reading the handout, you will be better able to decide when to use these forms of punctuation in your own writing. Understanding the distinction between uses and use is crucial in both written and spoken English. Uses is often associated with lists or discussions of multiple functions, and use is employed when referring to the general act of using something or a specific instance of it being used. Autumn is used in British English and fall in American English. That's an expression she often uses to describe how she feels. Define uses. uses synonyms, uses pronunciation, uses translation, English dictionary definition of uses. v. used , us·ing , us·es v. tr. 1. To put into service or employ for a purpose: I used a whisk to beat the eggs. Note: Uses originated in early English law and were the origin of the modern trust. Uses became popular in medieval England, where they were often secretly employed as a method of evading laws (as those prohibiting mortmain) and penalties (as attainder) and to defeat creditors. If you say that someone uses people, you disapprove of them because they make others do things for them in order to benefit or gain some advantage from it, and not because they care about the other people. Synonyms for USES: utilizes, applies, employs, exploits, operates, harnesses, exercises, draws on; Antonyms of USES: ignores, neglects, misuses, misapplies, disuses, nonuses, dislikes, hatreds Whenever the couple need help – which is often as Tulsi frequently has to be carried to hospital – Padam Singh uses a traditional long-horn instrument to summon neighbours. Uses definition: The act of using something or the purpose for which something is used. - See meaning, pronunciation, etymology, examples, and related words. USES definition: plural of use. and present tense form of use (3rd person singular). See examples of uses used in a sentence.