Rule reminder

These three verbs all translate as 'to use' but differ in register and nuance. 'Usare' is neutral and everyday (uso il telefono). 'Utilizzare' is more formal/technical (si utilizza un software specifico). 'Impiegare' often implies deploying resources or taking time (impiegare risorse, impiegare due ore). In formal writing, 'utilizzare' is preferred; in speech, 'usare' is natural. 'Impiegare' also means 'to employ' (impiegare personale).