Tool use
A model's ability to call outside functions, such as searching the web, querying a database, or sending an email, and use the results. Also called function calling. The basic building block of agents.
“With tool use it checks the live inventory instead of guessing.”
See also
In the history of AI
Part of the Extended list
Tool use is on the Extended list: builder jargon, industry terms, and newer slang for when you want to go further. It entered common use around 2024.