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Utilize is "use" but focusing on the thing being used rather than what it's used for.

I utilized my calculus textbook to prop up my monitor. I used my calculus textbook to prop up my monitor.

In the first, I'm looking for a use for the book and that's what I could do with it. In the second, I need to raise my monitor, and the calculus book was handy.

I also consider it to mean proper use of something. But figured it was just me ascribing extra meaning.

For instance, (assuming no context is provided) if someone said they utilized a fire extinguisher I would assume they meant to put out a fire. If they said they used a fire extinguisher, I would be wondering what they used it for (to propel an office chair , kill a mouse, cool their beer). Context of course almost always exists.

The first definiton of "use" (as a verb with an object) is very similar:

"1. to employ for some purpose; put into service; make use of: to use a knife."