I saw “utilize” in a document where “use” would be correct.

Problem:
The verbs “utilize” and “use” are not synonyms.

Explanation:
The verb “utilize” means to put to profitable use. For example, The drill sargeants could not use the PDAs would mean that the drill sargeants were unable to operate the PDAs, whereas The drill sargeants could not utilize the PDAs would mean that the drill sargeants could not find ways to deploy the PDAs in the boot camp.

Solution:
Use “utilize” when you want to indicate to put to profitable use; use “use” otherwise.