Definition
Tool use means the agent can do more than generate text. It may retrieve documents, update tickets, query orders, call APIs, or trigger workflow steps.
AI Agent term
Tool Use
An agent capability where the system calls external tools, APIs, search, databases, or workflow actions.
Why it matters
Tool use increases value and risk. Evaluation must check whether the agent chooses the right tool, passes correct parameters, and handles failures safely.
Example
A support agent checks an order status tool before drafting a delivery update.