tool use (noun)
The ability of an AI system to use software tools. From software that a person might use, through to external functions, services, or APIs in order to do work beyond pure text generation. Tool use turns a model from a conversationalist into an active doer that can take actions and complete a wide array of work.
Example: "Once tool use was enabled, the assistant could look up the shipment, update the CRM, and send the draft reply without leaving the chat."
Related: agent, integration, wrapper